River Valley Transit Services and Route Guide
River Valley Transit (RVT) provides essential transportation connectivity across its service area, utilizing a structured system of fixed-route buses and flexible transit options. To ensure efficient coverage, the agency organizes its operations into two primary divisions: the Shoreline division and the Middletown division.
Fixed-Route Bus Divisions
The fixed-route system is designed around two central hubs that facilitate transfers and regional connectivity. The Shoreline division, previously known as 9 Town Transit, operates out of the Old Saybrook station. The Middletown division, formerly known as Middletown Area Transit, is centered at the Middletown bus terminal.
Shoreline Division Routes
The Shoreline division focuses on connecting Old Saybrook with surrounding towns and regional centers. The available routes include:
- 640: Old Saybrook Loop
- 641: Old Saybrook – Madison
- 642: Old Saybrook – Chester
- 643: Old Saybrook – New London
- 644: Old Saybrook – Middletown
- 645: Madison – Middletown
Middletown Division Routes
The Middletown division provides localized transit and regional links from the Middletown bus terminal. The available routes include:
- 581: Saybrook Road
- 582: Wesleyan Hills
- 583: Washington Street
- 584: Newfield Street
- 585: Westlake Drive
- 586: Portland/East Hampton
- 590: Meriden – Middletown Flyer
Flexible Transit Options
Beyond fixed schedules, RVT offers several specialized services to meet diverse rider needs. This includes microtransit—a flexible, on-demand transit service—branded as XtraMile, which operates in four distinct service areas.
Additionally, RVT provides paratransit services, which are specialized transportation options for individuals with disabilities, within portions of both the Shoreline and Middletown divisions. For general users, dial-a-ride services are available throughout the entire service area; these services do not require a specific age or disability status but do carry a higher fare.
Key Facts
- Two Main Hubs: Old Saybrook station (Shoreline) and Middletown bus terminal (Middletown).
- Division History: Shoreline was formerly 9 Town Transit; Middletown was formerly Middletown Area Transit.
- On-Demand Transit: Four XtraMile microtransit zones are available.
- Accessibility: Paratransit is available in specific portions of both divisions.
- Universal Access: Dial-a-ride serves the whole area without age or disability requirements.
| Division | Primary Hub | Route Numbers | Key Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoreline | Old Saybrook station | 640–645 | Madison, Chester, New London, Middletown |
| Middletown | Middletown bus terminal | 581–590 | Wesleyan Hills, Portland, East Hampton, Meriden |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two main hubs for River Valley Transit?
The two primary hubs are the Old Saybrook station for the Shoreline division and the Middletown bus terminal for the Middletown division.
What is XtraMile?
XtraMile is the brand name for the four microtransit services operated by RVT, providing more flexible transportation options than fixed routes.
Who can use the dial-a-ride service?
Anyone within the service area can use dial-a-ride, as there are no age or disability requirements, though it does feature a higher fare than standard services.
Does RVT offer services for people with disabilities?
Yes, RVT operates paratransit services in specific portions of the Shoreline and Middletown divisions.
Which route connects Middletown and Meriden?
The Meriden – Middletown Flyer, designated as route 590, provides this connection.