As WAVE prepares for the start of Fiscal Year 2026 on October 1, 2025, several important service updates are coming to our communities. While some of these changes are bittersweet, we are committed to supporting riders through a smooth transition and continuing to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable transportation where possible.
🚨 Important Updates
Stockbridge Riders
The last day WAVE will provide rides in Stockbridge is September 30, 2025.
Beginning October 1, 2025, all rides will be provided by CATA Rural Service, funded through the Rural Transportation Millage.
To ensure riders have the information they need, WAVE will host a Stockbridge Town Hall on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Stockbridge Senior Center. CATA representatives will join to walk through how to book trips, fares, and eligibility, and to answer questions.
Unadilla / Pinckney / Putnam Riders (Livingston County)
The last day WAVE will provide rides in Livingston County is September 30, 2025.
Beginning October 1, 2025, all rides will transition to LETS (Livingston Essential Transportation Service).
At this time, there are no dedicated funds or local support flowing into this service area, but WAVE is working to make sure riders are informed and prepared for the change.
Grass Lake & Waterloo Riders
Grass Lake: Starting October 1, 2025, WAVE will provide rides on Tuesdays and Thursdays only. This reduction follows lowered contributions from Grass Lake Village and Grass Lake Township, and other local funders choosing not to commit at this time—with the crucial exception of Chelsea Hospital, whose continued support saved the service at two days per week.
Waterloo Township: Service will end after September 30, 2025. The Township did not renew its contract with WAVE, so there will be no WAVE service in Waterloo beginning October 1, 2025.
🏛️ Additional Town Hall
To discuss these countywide changes, WAVE will hold a Town Hall at the Dexter Senior Center on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM. Community members are invited to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback.
đź’¬ A Message from WAVE
“These decisions are never easy, and we know the real impact they have on neighbors who rely on us. Our team is focused on clear communication and hands-on support—like our Stockbridge Town Hall with CATA—so riders have what they need for a smooth transition. At the same time, we’re excited to remove cost barriers for older adults across Washtenaw County,” said Marie Gress, WAVE Executive Director.
🥳 Good News for Washtenaw County Seniors
Thanks to the Washtenaw County Older Persons Millage commitment of $333,333, all Washtenaw County residents aged 60+ will ride WAVE for free starting September 15, 2025.
This funding reimburses WAVE for rides provided to eligible older adults 60+ residing in Washtenaw County. WAVE is finalizing a simple eligibility process and clear indicators for drivers to help identify who owes a fare and who does not.
WAVE ADVANTAGE Program
WAVE is launching the WAVE ADVANTAGE Program to make fares simple, fair, and fast at boarding. All riders are asked to complete a brief eligibility form by November 1st to receive a WAVE ADVANTAGE Card—your driver’s quick visual cue for free, discounted, or regular fares.
👉 Fill out the form here: ridethewavebus.org/advantage-card/
Community Days (Public Welcome)
Got questions? Want to share feedback—or register for WAVE ADVANTAGE in person? Stop by a WAVE Community Day:
- Grass Lake Senior Center: every 2nd Wednesday, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
- Manchester Senior Center: every 4th Tuesday, 10:00–11:30 AM
- Dexter Senior Center: every 3rd Tuesday, 10:00–11:30 AM
- Chelsea Senior Center: every 2nd Thursday, 11:00 AM–12:30 PM
Come ask questions, tell us about your experience with WAVE, and—all October Community Days—get help registering for the WAVE ADVANTAGE Program on the spot. Public welcome!
Looking Ahead
As WAVE begins Fiscal Year 2026, which is WAVE’s 50th Anniversary, our mission remains the same: providing equitable, affordable, and reliable transportation throughout Western Washtenaw and beyond. We thank our riders, drivers, staff, and community partners for their patience and dedication during this transition.
For questions or more details about these changes, visit www.ridethewavebus.org or call 734-475-9494.
