Game Day Express

Target Audience: This initiative, in partnership with the Buffalo Bills Organization and state and local lawmakers, targeted Buffalo Bills fans, Metro riders, and residents of the Western New York Community.

Strategy Objective:The NFTA provided service to the Buffalo Bills stadium for home games through the 2010 season, but eliminated the service due to operational challenges, not ridership. Based on interest from rider surveys and support from the Buffalo Bills and state and local government, our goal was to restore Gameday Express service for the 2022/23 season. By providing Buffalo Bills fans with an affordable, efficient, and safe transportation option, we could help alleviate travel and traffic issues while heightening the gameday experience.

Situation Challenge: Given the 2022/23 home game schedule, there were many days of the week and time combinations, creating challenges in managing traffic patterns and service needs. Obtaining access to key roadways at the stadium was also critical to ensuring legibility for passengers and safe and expedient trips.

Results Impact: Since the season's home opener, ridership has increased by 33% overall, with the highest single-game increase at 95%. The service has also been well-received by the public and highly promoted on social media.

Why Submit: Metro's Gameday Express service has addressed a critical need for the WNY community and the Buffalo Bills organization. It offers game-goers an efficient transportation option to help reduce vehicle congestion and parking issues while supporting the safety of tens of thousands of game-going Buffalo Bills fans! Implementing this service has also helped identify a roadmap to meet our community's evolving transportation needs as construction begins on the new NFL stadium in Orchard Park (2024/25).