From "Wheels" to "Mad Bus"

In the early 1990s, the newly formed MRV TAC created a three-year pilot bus program with the goal of providing a Valley-wide and commuter bus system. In collaboration with MRVPD, Sugarbush and the MRV Chamber of Commerce, the MRV TAC crafted a Short Range Transit Plan that envisioned a cohesive, year-round Valley transit system.

The group sought grants with a funding structure comprised of 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match contributions. The MRV TAC was initially denied by the Vermont Legislature because the state felt that the money was primarily benefiting the ski areas. MRV TAC members testified before the VT Senate, ultimately leading to agreement that public transit was sorely needed and serviced the greater good rather than simply providing funds to the ski areas. With funding, the local group was able to procure buses, find a service provider, and begin providing fare-free transit known as “Wheels.”

Green Mountain Transit (GMT) assumed provision of transit in the MRV in 2003, converting the Wheels program to the “Mad Bus,” a fare-free seasonal shuttle service that covers the Valley Floor and Sugarbush Ski area. This service continues today under a new name, the Mad River Valley Bus Service.

See the latest MRV Bus Service Ridership Report by GMT here.

Mad River Scenic Byway

State routes in Middlesex, Moretown, Waitsfield, Warren and Granville were granted National Scenic Byway designation from the U.S. Secretary of Transportation in 2008.

The subsequent MRV Scenic Byway stretches 36.5 miles through Middlesex, Moretown, Waitsfield, Buels Gore, Fayston, Warren and Granville via Routes 2, 100, 100B and 17. The Mad River Byway is one of 10 scenic roadways in Vermont recognized for its archeological, cultural, historic, natural recreational or scenic qualities. Designation made the area eligible for federally funded projects, such as roadside kiosks, interpretive signage, mapping and promotional material. The work was led through a MRV Byway Committee with technical support from MRVPD and the Central VT Regional Planning Commission.

For more information visit the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce website.

MRV Moves

The Mad River Valley Moves Active Transportation Plan details a framework for a consistent, cohesive and connected regional system of trails, roads and sidewalks that provide a range of transportation options and recreational experiences for all user groups in the MRV, all while connecting users to the natural landscape and respecting the resources that make the Valley so special.

The Plan was led by MRVPD and funded in partnership by the Vermont Agency of Transportation Strong Communities, Better Connections Program; Vermont Agency of Commerce & Community Development; the towns of Fayston, Moretown, Warren & Waitsfield; the MRV Rotary Club; and the MRV Chamber of Commerce.

What is Active Transportation?

Planning for active transportation means providing for safe and convenient opportunities for physically active travel. This is particularly relevant in communities such as the MRV, where traditionally 'recreational' trails and paths are more frequently used for transportation.