The Emerald Express (EmX) is LTD’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, seamlessly connecting West Eugene, Downtown Eugene, the University of Oregon, Downtown Springfield, and the Gateway/RiverBend areas.

Purchase Fare Before You Board

Fares for EmX are the same as neighborhood bus service, and must be purchased in advance of riding. Purchase your ticket well in advance of the EmX bus arriving — this process may take a few moments, so plan accordingly.

Buy Fare with the Umo App

Get step-by-step instructions on getting started and purchasing fare with the Umo App or tap card on the Umo Pass webpage.

Ticket Vending Machines

Each EmX station has a ticket vending machine to purchase fare. Credit/debit cards or cash are accepted, but the ticket machine cannot give change. Valid LTD fare is accepted on EmX, and EmX day passes are accepted on regular service.

Three easy steps to purchase your ticket:

  1. Select your fare type (yellow button).
  2. Insert exact payment. The machine accepts credit cards, $1 bills, and change, except pennies. The machine does not give change.
  3. Take your ticket.
person at the ticketing machine

Made a mistake?

Press the red cancel button. Coins will be returned or you will receive a canceled transaction ticket. Canceled transaction tickets must be redeemed at LTD Customer Service Center (link to: Customer Service page) within three business days. EmX single-ride tickets are valid on EmX for 30 minutes from the time of purchase. EmX Day Pass tickets are valid on EmX for the day they are purchased or they may be exchanged for a standard LTD Day Pass on a regular LTD bus on the date of purchase.

person waiting for EmX bus

Wait for the Bus to Arrive

With 10-15 minute service on weekdays and 15-30 minute service in the evenings and on weekends, the next EmX bus is always right around the corner.

All EmX Stations are equipped with comfortable covered shelters, have a fare machine, use functional art, are pedestrian friendly and most feature real-time arrival information.

person exiting EmX showcasing level platform

Boarding the Bus is Easy with Level Boarding Platforms

EmX stations are the same height as the bus and the bus pulls up very close to the curb, making boarding fast and easy for riders. Board through the rear or middle doors with all your possessions at the same time — don’t leave something on the platform as the doors can close without warning. Learn more about LTD’s Rules for Riding for information on what you can bring on the bus. If you need a ramp to bridge the distance between the platform and the bus, notify the operator.

Mobility Devices

Two wheelchair bays are located at the front of each vehicle. Priority for front seats is given to seniors and people with disabilities. Learn more about riding EmX with a mobility device .

Strollers

Children are welcome in strollers on EmX as long as the stroller does not block the aisle. If the aisle is blocked, you may be asked to fold and stow your stroller.

person on wheelchair getting on EmX

Bikes on EmX

Taking your bike on the bus? EmX can hold up to three bikes inside. Bicycles and similar devices powered by fuel other than a battery, are not permitted. Battery compartments must be sealed. Devices must weigh under 55 pounds.

When riding EmX with your bike , enter through the back door, place your bike in the rack and secure it using the fastening straps. Pay attention as others board with bikes as you may need them to move their bike so that you can remove yours. 

person entering the back of an EmX bus with a bike

Scan or tap to ride EmX

Pay as you board with your Umo tap card or app

It’s easy to pay fare on EmX with the Umo app or tap card. Scan or tap as you board, just like on neighborhood bus routes. On-board readers will be located at the front and rear doors to pay fare when boarding.

Pay before boarding with QR code scan at select stations

At high-traffic stations near UO, and at Eugene, Springfield, Centennial, Seneca and Commerce Stations, look for QR code signs to pay fare before you board with the Umo app.

To use the QR code signs:

  1. Open the Umo app.
  2. If your app is not already connected to your bus pass, add money or a pass to your Umo wallet, or redeem your benefit code from your school or employer.
  3. Select “Code” from the menu at the bottom and then select “Scan”.
  4. Scan the QR code located at the top of the EmX ticket vending machine.
Person using ticket machine

Cash will still be accepted at ticket vending machines and at Customer Service Centers. Keep your ticket to show fare inspectors. 

Enjoy the Ride

On-bus announcements will keep you informed as you approach each station, including which side of the vehicle to exit. Bus-only lanes (link to: Sharing the Road page) and signals let buses travel ahead of car traffic, creating faster travel times. Pull the cord or press the stop button to signal for your stop.