About HTA

The Humboldt Transit Authority

HTA was established in 1975 as a joint powers authority (JPA) signed by Humboldt County and the cities of Arcata, Eureka, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Trinidad. HTA is funded primarily through fares and Transportation Development Act (TDA) funds from the JPA members. HTA is headquartered in the county seat of Eureka and is governed by a seven member Board of Directors comprised of one representative each from the five incorporated cities and two representatives from the County of Humboldt. HTA operates and maintains the Redwood Transit System (RTS), the Willow Creek Transit Service, and the Southern Humboldt Transit Systems. 

Eureka Transit Service

ETS has been operating since January 1976. ETS was originally contracted to a private bus operator, and later to HTA in the mid-1980s. As a Mayor-council form of government, the five-member City Council serves as the main legislative body. The City Manager oversees the operations of City departments and services. The Finance Department currently provides oversight and management of the transit system. ETS’ fixed-route system is operated under contract by HTA, while demand response service (dial-a-ride/dial-a-lift) is operated under a separate contract by City Ambulance of Eureka (CAE). A third contract is an agreement between the city and HTA for HTA to conduct day-to-day administration and reporting of the DAR/DAL program.

Arcata & Mad River Transit System

A&MRTS was established by the City of Arcata in 1975 as a means of providing alternative transportation to serve HSU students, seniors, the disabled and other residents lacking access to an automobile. As a Mayor-council form of government, the five-member City Council serves as the main legislative body. The City Manager oversees the operations of City departments and services. The A&MRTS is administered by the Public Transportation Superintendent within the Public Works Department. The Arcata Transit Center, located at 925 E Street, serves as the principal hub for the A&MRTS as well as for other local and inter-city bus services.