Big Changes Coming for EWU Bus Riders

EWU is transitioning how the campus community accesses the free bus benefits moving from a card to an app-based system. As a family member of an EWU student, we want to make sure you are aware of the upcoming changes!

Spokane Transit Authority (STA) is moving to the Connect fare system, which utilizes a mobile phone application for ridership on buses and paratransit vehicles. EWU will no longer use the EagleCard (student ID) for ridership after Sept. 30, 2025.

EWU’s IT Department is working with STA to implement the new Connect app system for EWU users. The app is currently being tested by faculty and staff who are part of the Commute Trip Reduction Program and is accessible, along with instructions, through the QR code posted below.

Individuals who don’t have a smartphone or would prefer to have a physical STA Connect card can visit Eagle Services in person during regular business hours, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

After a successful testing period, the timing for the rollout is:

May 8: Faculty and staff who are part of the Community Trip Reduction Program will begin using the app to ride the bus.

June 16: All students registered for summer classes; and summer student employees registered for fall classes will start using the app to ride the bus.

Aug. 4: Semester students registered for classes will begin using the app to ride the bus.

Sept. 3: All students registered for fall classes, all faculty and staff who have an active EagleCard and EWU email address; and all other categories approved for ridership, such as active EWURA, will begin using the app.

Sept. 30: EagleCard ID will sunset for bus ridership.

Third week of September: STA will start using double-decker buses for Cheney-Spokane routes.

For questions or concerns, please call Eagle Services at 509.359.6520 or STA at 509.328.7433.