CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Area Rural Transit System reported a 29% increase in ridership during July as its drivers traveled more than 46,000 miles connecting residents with jobs, medical care and other services.
CARTS provided an average of 190 rides per operating day during the month, according to figures released by the county transportation provider.
Based on the reported percentage increase, CARTS averaged approximately 147 rides per operating day in July 2025. That represents an increase of roughly 43 daily rides over the previous year.
The transportation system said the numbers reflect seniors traveling to medical appointments, individuals with disabilities maintaining their independence, employees getting to work and families reaching businesses and essential services throughout the community.
CARTS is a demand-response public transportation provider serving Cullman County. Unlike a traditional fixed-route bus system, riders generally schedule transportation based on when and where they need to travel.
The system operates a fleet of 37 vehicles ranging from standard vans to buses capable of carrying as many as 25 passengers. Thirty-six vehicles are equipped with accessibility lifts.
CARTS operates Monday through Friday, except holidays. Its office is open from 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m., while ride reservations may be made from 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Riders should call 256-734-1246 no later than 2:30 p.m. on the business day before transportation is needed. Same-day rides may be available when the schedule allows, but an additional $2 charge applies.
Regular one-way fares are based on distance:
- Up to 7 miles: $2
- More than 7 miles through 15 miles: $4
- More than 15 miles: $6
Riders who are 60 or older and riders with disabilities receive a 50% discount on those fares. Exact change is required when boarding. CARTS also sells $10 and $20 punch cards through its drivers and office.
Riders may schedule as many as three stops per day when space and scheduling permit. An additional $1 is charged for each stop.
CARTS also operates county shopping routes on designated weekdays. Those routes cost $3 round trip and serve different areas of the county each day:
- Monday: Vinemont, Jones Chapel and West Point
- Tuesday: Holly Pond, Welti and Berlin
- Wednesday: Cold Springs, Dodge City and Good Hope
- Thursday: Baileyton, Gold Ridge, Fairview, Joppa, Simcoe, Hanceville, Colony, Garden City and White City
- Friday: Crane Hill and Logan
City shopping pickups are scheduled for 10 a.m. or noon on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Cullman County Commission on Aging also reports that CARTS provides free transportation to and from the county’s full-time senior centers. Riders should still call at least one business day before transportation is needed.
Alabama’s rural transit program uses federal and local funding to support public transportation in communities outside larger urbanized areas. Such services are intended to help rural residents reach health care, employment, shopping and other necessities.
The CARTS office is located at 1950 Beech Ave. SE in Cullman. To reserve a ride or request additional information, call 256-734-1246.
