FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Dependable and Accessible Transportation for Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Ft. Meade, Frostproof and Surrounding Areas
Citrus Connection is the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) for Polk County. This special program provides subsidized or reduced-price bus passes. We also provide door-to-door service to physically, mentally, emotionally or economically disadvantaged individuals. Call 855-POLKBUS (765-5287) to qualify.
In compliance with the Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP), Citrus Connection Paratransit is our call ahead, door-to-door service for those who are unable to use our regular service. This specialized fleet of small, wheelchair lift-equipped buses is currently available to senior citizens, disadvantaged citizens and citizens with disabilities throughout Polk County. The cost of these services is a one-way fare of $2, or co-pay as low as $2. Once the qualification process is approved, requests for transportation can be made in advance at 863-534-5500. (TD requests for service may be subject to service availability). For more information or to see if you qualify for Paratransit service, download the application form at ridecitrus.com, or give us a call at 863-534-5500.
Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Act Transportation Services
What is a SMARTCARD?
The Citrus Connection SMARTCARD is a reloadable plastic card that has replaced the existing paper passes. It is also automated with a chip that allows passengers to store their reduced transit fare on the card. Simply buy a new Citrus Connection SMARTCARD or add additional fares on an existing Citrus Connection SMARTCARD when you board the bus.
For more details, click here.
Where can I get assistance planning my travel in either English or Spanish?
Simply call 855-POLKBUS (765-5287). Our customer service representatives will answer your questions in either language.
Do you ever change your bus schedule?
Yes, we continually evaluate our routes to be sure our scheduled stops are best serving the needs of the public. Decisions are made based on the Community Scorecard (see Home page for Community Scorecard information), which provides information on all runs for all routes regarding passengers, boardings and deboardings so a quality evaluation may be made before changes are instituted.
When is bus service available?
Weekday hours of operation are 6:15 AM to 7:15 PM. Saturday hours are 6:30 AM to 4:15 PM.
How do I find out if I live in the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District?
You can click this link and type in your address in the search space. If you live in an apartment, just type in the address of the business office.
The times listed cover fixed route as well as Paratransit service. Reservations for Paratransit rides must be called in by 5:00 PM. Contact us at 855-POLKBUS (765-5287).
For any further questions feel free to contact info@ridecitrus.com.
There will be no bus service on the following holidays:
- Labor Day: Monday, September 01, 2025
- Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 27, 2025
- Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
- New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 01, 2026
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 25, 2026
- Independence Day: Saturday, July 04, 2026
