GRTC has officially opened its new Downtown Transfer Station.

The station, located in a former parking lot at Eighth and Clay Streets, replaces an on-street transfer location on Ninth Street. As the first dedicated space for GRTC in the heart of downtown Richmond, its being hailed as a step in the right direction by city and GRTC leaders.

The DTS includes amenities like phone charging stations, public Wi-Fi, shaded shelters, and informational kiosks with live updates on the status of buses. GRTC served over 5,000 people a day at its old plaza, according to CEO Sheryl Adams. In this new location, it expects that number to keep going up.

GRTC CEO said the old plaza served over 5,000 riders a day — this new station is only expected to boost those numbers. | Photo by RICtoday

Henrico County Supervisor Tyrone Nelson hailed the station as an important development for everyone in the Greater Richmond area, not just those who live in the city. Better public transit infrastructure, he said, is not just important for reasons of convenience — it's also a step forward in the pursuit of economic and environmental justice.

GRTC has already served over 9 million riders in 2023, according to Virginia Dept. of Rail and Public Transportation Director Jennifer DeBruhl — a number that only stands to grow as operations begin at the new transfer station. When Mayor Levar Stoney and GRTC Chief of Staff Adrienne Torres cut the ribbon at 8th and Clay on Monday morning, business was already underway.

Planning a trip on Richmond public transit? Check out GRTC's trip planning tool, or take a look at their complete route schedule.