A new western-themed bus line will connect two of the most popular destinations in Fort Worth — the Stockyards and downtown.
Regional transit provider Trinity Metro will launch the Orange Line on Sunday. Buses will run every 15 minutes between downtown and the resurgent Stockyards, with stops at nearby train stations and the Historic Northside. Service will run daily between 5 a.m. and 1 a.m.
City leaders say the new buses could help strengthen the city’s tourism. In 2023, Fort Worth drew nearly 11 million visitors, with downtown and the Stockyards being two of the main attractions.
The exterior of the orange buses depict cowboys, country western dancers, cattle and horses, with the phrase “Let’s ride.” Inside, the buses have brown faux-leather and cowhide seats and vinyl ceilings with murals of cloud-filled skies. Texas artist Merri Ellen Kase created the artwork on the buses.
The buses will have an “enhanced onboard experience with features not typically seen on public transit,” according to a news release from Trinity Metro.
Rich Andreski, president and CEO of Trinity Metro, said in the release the Orange Line is more than a public transportation route, calling it a “bold step” for the city’s future.
“By linking the city’s world-class entertainment and business districts, we’re not only enhancing access for the millions of visitors who come here each year, but also creating a dynamic draw for our residents and businesses who call Fort Worth home,” Andreski said.
The Stockyards has undergone a transformation in recent years, with the opening of the trendy Mule Alley and cowboy-chic Hotel Drover, recognized this month by Michelin. Fort Worth is planning to pour in more than $600 million over the next several years to add more commercial space, hotel rooms, housing and additional parking.
Trinity Metro developed the Orange Line in partnership with Visit Fort Worth, Fort Worth Stockyards and downtown business leaders, according to the release.
Orange Line rides will be free through Oct. 31. After that, a one-way fare will be $2 or a day pass will be $4.
