In 2025, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) made meaningful strides toward meeting the evolving needs of the region and improving the rider experience. From launching new services and celebrating record ridership, to upgrading technology and enhancing safety, this year reflected MTS’s continued commitment to keeping San Diego moving - day and night. Here’s a look back at some of the milestones that shaped 2025.
Launched Route 910 – Overnight Bus Service
In January, MTS launched Route 910, the first-ever overnight express bus route designed for late-night and early-morning riders. The new service connects riders to key job centers in Downtown San Diego and the naval shipyards during hours when Trolley service is limited or unavailable. Route 910 filled a critical service gap, supporting essential workers and providing a reliable transportation option around the clock.
San Diego FC Inaugural Season
San Diego welcomed a new major league team in 2025, and San Diego FC made an unforgettable debut. In their inaugural season, SDFC advanced all the way to the MLS Western Conference Finals. MTS played a key role in getting fans to the action, delivering nearly 500,000 cheering supporters over the season to Snapdragon Stadium and reinforcing transit as the easiest way to experience major sporting events.
Expanded PRONTO Commemorative Card Program
The PRONTO Commemorative Card Program grew in 2025 with three new limited-edition cards. MTS released designs celebrating AAPI Heritage Month featuring artwork by Koy Sun, Hispanic Heritage Month with artwork by Mr. B Baby, and a special San Diego FC PRONTO card. The program continues to highlight local artists, culture, and community pride while giving riders a collectible way to tap and ride.
New Digital Signs and Onboard Technology
MTS also began a systemwide upgrade of Variable Messaging Signs (VMS), delivering sharper resolution, higher brightness, and wider viewing angles. These upgrades ensure riders can more easily see real-time arrivals, service alerts, event information, and marketing messages.
Additionally, MTS launched a pilot program for onboard Trolley monitors on ten Trolley cars. The pilot explores replacing physical signage, sharing real-time updates for events, detours, and delays, and creating new non-fare revenue opportunities through advertising. The pilot runs through Summer 2026, with possible expansion to the full Trolley fleet.
Two Million Contactless Payment Taps
In 2025, MTS reached a major contactless payment milestone (and then another). With contactless payments (launched in July 2024), riders can board quickly by tapping a credit or debit card, phone, or wearable smart watch. After reaching one million taps in May of this year, usage surged in the second half of the year, hitting two million taps just six months later in November. MTS became the first transit agency in California to reach this milestone.
Safety Recognition and TSA Award
One of the most significant achievements of the year was a 24% decrease in reported crime across the MTS system. This improvement followed a targeted Security Initiative focused on increasing the visibility and accessibility of security officers. In response to these safety efforts, as well as an assessment of our security program, MTS received the Transportation Security Administration’s Gold Standard Award—one of only two U.S. transit agencies to earn this distinction.
Rolling in New Electric Buses
2025 brought the next investment in a zero-emission bus fleet, getting 13 new battery-electric buses and breaking ground on a major new charging facility at our Imperial Avenue Division. Behind the scenes, we also wrapped up planning for even more charging infrastructure at Kearny Mesa, setting us up for the future of an expanded zero-emission fleet. Every step moves us closer to a quieter, cleaner ride for the communities we serve.
Record Ridership and Community Engagement
In 2025, MTS surpassed 81 million rides, a 7.1% increase over 2024. Trolley ridership grew 7.5%, driven by enhanced nighttime and weekend service and major events at Petco Park and Snapdragon Stadium. On the bus network, 11 routes exceeded one million rides, with Routes 7 and 13 nearing two million riders each.
MTS also launched OnTrack, a public engagement initiative to gather input on the future of bus and Trolley service. More than 7,500 community members participated through 33 outreach events, workshops, and online activities, helping shape future service plans.
As 2025 comes to a close, these milestones reflect a year of progress, partnership and purpose. Whether expanding service, embracing new technology, improving safety or listening to the community, MTS continued to move San Diego forward. With strong momentum and rider support, MTS looks ahead to 2026 focused on delivering safe, reliable and accessible transit for everyone.
