Route 12A Times, Downtown Stops, CWU Connections and Live Bus Map
Central Transit Route 12A is a zero-fare daily loop serving downtown Ellensburg, Central Washington University, the Airport and Greenfield area, Brooklane, Fred Meyer and the Ruby and Umptanum corridor.
Route 12A departs the downtown Ruby and 4th timepoint hourly. Route 12B follows many shared timepoints about 30 minutes later, but riders must confirm the route letter and direction before boarding.
This guide covers Central Transit Route 12A in Ellensburg, Washington. Another prominent U.S. Route 12A is the Greensboro Transit Agency Southtown Connector in North Carolina.
Ellensburg Route 12A
Choose this route for downtown Ellensburg, CWU’s Student Union and Recreation Center, Airport and Greenfield, Brooklane, Fred Meyer and Ruby and Umptanum.
Do not combine the schedules: Ellensburg Route 12A and Greensboro Route 12A have different agencies, stops, operating hours, fares and trackers.
Quick Route 12A answer
What Riders Need to Know Before Boarding
Route pattern
Route 12A runs a northern loop through CWU, Verge and Brooklane, returns downtown, then operates a shorter southern loop through Fred Meyer and Ruby and Umptanum.
Frequency
Route 12A itself is listed hourly. Route 12B follows the shared northern timepoints approximately 30 minutes after Route 12A.
Fare
No fare, ticket, pass or cash payment is required on Ellensburg Central Transit fixed routes.
Live arrivals
Call or text the posted stop number to 509-297-8861, use the official interactive map or check the Transit app.
Arrival rule: Central Transit recommends reaching the stop five to seven minutes before the estimated bus time.
How Central Transit Route 12A Travels Through Ellensburg
The published timepoints form one hourly operating cycle. The bus leaves downtown, completes the longer CWU and Airport/Greenfield loop, returns downtown, completes the Fred Meyer and Umptanum loop, and returns downtown for the next hourly departure.
18 minutes
Downtown → Fred Meyer → Umptanum → Downtown
Cycle calculation: the approximate 42-minute and 18-minute sections are derived from the official listed timepoints. Traffic, weather and boarding time can change the actual trip.
Official Route 12A timepoints
Route 12A Bus Schedule — Daily Departures
The current official route page lists the same Route 12A timepoints Monday through Sunday. The times below are scheduled departures, not guaranteed live arrivals.
First downtown departure7:10 a.m.
Ruby and 4th, northbound stop 324
South-loop departure:52
Leaves downtown after the north loop
Last listed timepoint7:52 p.m.
Final listed downtown return
North Loop: Downtown, CWU, Verge and Brooklane
Downtown NB Stop 324
SURC WB Stop 248
Alder & Helena NB Stop 172
Verge NB Stop 152
Alder & Helena SB Stop 176
Brooklane WB Stop 116
SURC WB Stop 248
Downtown SB Stop 320
7:10 a.m.
7:16 a.m.
7:22 a.m.
7:25 a.m.
7:30 a.m.
7:35 a.m.
7:40 a.m.
7:52 a.m.
8:10 a.m.
8:16 a.m.
8:22 a.m.
8:25 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
8:35 a.m.
8:40 a.m.
8:52 a.m.
9:10 a.m.
9:16 a.m.
9:22 a.m.
9:25 a.m.
9:30 a.m.
9:35 a.m.
9:40 a.m.
9:52 a.m.
10:10 a.m.
10:16 a.m.
10:22 a.m.
10:25 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
10:35 a.m.
10:40 a.m.
10:52 a.m.
11:10 a.m.
11:16 a.m.
11:22 a.m.
11:25 a.m.
11:30 a.m.
11:35 a.m.
11:40 a.m.
11:52 a.m.
12:10 p.m.
12:16 p.m.
12:22 p.m.
12:25 p.m.
12:30 p.m.
12:35 p.m.
12:40 p.m.
12:52 p.m.
1:10 p.m.
1:16 p.m.
1:22 p.m.
1:25 p.m.
1:30 p.m.
1:35 p.m.
1:40 p.m.
1:52 p.m.
2:10 p.m.
2:16 p.m.
2:22 p.m.
2:25 p.m.
2:30 p.m.
2:35 p.m.
2:40 p.m.
2:52 p.m.
3:10 p.m.
3:16 p.m.
3:22 p.m.
3:25 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
3:35 p.m.
3:40 p.m.
3:52 p.m.
4:10 p.m.
4:16 p.m.
4:22 p.m.
4:25 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
4:35 p.m.
4:40 p.m.
4:52 p.m.
5:10 p.m.
5:16 p.m.
5:22 p.m.
5:25 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
5:35 p.m.
5:40 p.m.
5:52 p.m.
6:10 p.m.
6:16 p.m.
6:22 p.m.
6:25 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:35 p.m.
6:40 p.m.
6:52 p.m.
7:10 p.m.
7:16 p.m.
7:22 p.m.
7:25 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
7:35 p.m.
7:40 p.m.
7:52 p.m.
South Loop: Fred Meyer and Ruby & Umptanum
Downtown SB Stop 320
Fred Meyer SB Stop 388
Ruby & Umptanum SB Stop 332
Fred Meyer NB Stop 392
Downtown NB Stop 324
7:52 a.m.
7:57 a.m.
8:02 a.m.
8:05 a.m.
8:10 a.m.
8:52 a.m.
8:57 a.m.
9:02 a.m.
9:05 a.m.
9:10 a.m.
9:52 a.m.
9:57 a.m.
10:02 a.m.
10:05 a.m.
10:10 a.m.
10:52 a.m.
10:57 a.m.
11:02 a.m.
11:05 a.m.
11:10 a.m.
11:52 a.m.
11:57 a.m.
12:02 p.m.
12:05 p.m.
12:10 p.m.
12:52 p.m.
12:57 p.m.
1:02 p.m.
1:05 p.m.
1:10 p.m.
1:52 p.m.
1:57 p.m.
2:02 p.m.
2:05 p.m.
2:10 p.m.
2:52 p.m.
2:57 p.m.
3:02 p.m.
3:05 p.m.
3:10 p.m.
3:52 p.m.
3:57 p.m.
4:02 p.m.
4:05 p.m.
4:10 p.m.
4:52 p.m.
4:57 p.m.
5:02 p.m.
5:05 p.m.
5:10 p.m.
5:52 p.m.
5:57 p.m.
6:02 p.m.
6:05 p.m.
6:10 p.m.
6:52 p.m.
6:57 p.m.
7:02 p.m.
7:05 p.m.
7:10 p.m.
Evening-document discrepancy: the current route page lists a final Route 12A downtown return at 7:52 p.m., while an older official system brochure summarizes Route 12A service as ending around 7:45 p.m. Use the live route page or arrival system for the final evening trip.
Scheduled timepoints
Major Route 12A Stops and Stop Numbers
The timetable lists major scheduled timepoints rather than every physical bus stop. Stops between timepoints require an estimated or real-time arrival.
Timepoint
Stop Number
Direction
Typical Route 12A Minute
Ruby & 4th — Downtown
324
Northbound
:10
E 11th & N Maple — SURC
248
Westbound
:16 and :40
Alder & Helena
172
Northbound
:22
Airport & Greenfield — Verge
152
Northbound
:25
Alder & Helena
176
Southbound
:30
18th & Brooklane
116
Westbound
:35
Ruby & 4th — Downtown
320
Southbound
:52
Water & Capitol — Fred Meyer
388
Southbound
:57
Ruby & Umptanum
332
Southbound
:02
Water & Capitol — Fred Meyer
392
Northbound
:05
Route
Confirm 12A, not 12B.
Stop number
Match the posted code.
Direction
Check street side.
Loop
North or south section.
Alert
Check detours.
Visibility
Stand where the driver can see you.
Non-timepoint stop: find the nearest earlier scheduled timepoint and estimate forward. Central Transit recommends estimating early by five to seven minutes.
Route 12A vs Route 12B: Why the Letter Matters
Route 12A and Route 12B share many timepoints but operate on staggered clocks. Treat them as separate route labels even when both can serve part of the same journey.
Route 12A
First listed downtown departure: 7:10 a.m.
North-loop departures from downtown at :10 each hour.
Returns downtown at :52.
Continues around the south loop through Fred Meyer and Umptanum.
Final listed downtown return: 7:52 p.m.
Route 12B
First listed downtown departure: 7:40 a.m.
Shared north-loop timepoints are generally 30 minutes after 12A.
Returns downtown at :22.
Provides another option on shared parts of the Route 12 corridor.
Final listed downtown return: 8:22 p.m.
Practical frequency: at shared timepoints, alternating 12A and 12B trips can create approximately 30-minute service. Confirm that the approaching lettered route serves your exact stop and loop.
Real-time Route 12A information
Check When Route 12A Is Actually Arriving
The printed schedule is the plan. The official interactive map, stop-code service and supported trip-planning apps provide more useful information when traffic or weather changes the arrival.
Call or Text the Posted Stop Number
Find the stop number at the bottom of the Central Transit bus-stop sign. Call or text that number to the arrival-information service.
Example: riders at downtown northbound use stop 324; downtown southbound uses stop 320.
509-297-8861
Official interactive map
View Route 12A and its stops through Central Transit’s embedded system map.
Transit app
Plan a trip, view nearby departures and receive step-by-step riding guidance.
Google Maps or HERE WeGo
Use as secondary planning tools, then confirm service alerts through Central Transit.
No prediction displayed? Check the scheduled departure, active alerts and the next Route 12A or Route 12B trip. A missing prediction does not automatically mean the route is canceled.
Official interactive map
Route 12A Live Map and Bus Stops
Use the official map to inspect the full route beyond the major timepoints, identify the correct street side and check nearby connections.
Map limitation: a line on the map does not prove which side of an intersection serves your direction. Match the physical stop sign and stop number.
Official system brochure
View the Central Transit Route 12A/12B PDF Map
The official fixed-route brochure contains the Route 12A/12B map, timetable, system overview, holiday closures, contact details and rider tools.
The brochure was posted before the latest live-page review. Use its map for orientation, but use the current Route 12A webpage and arrival tools for the final departure decision.
If the PDF and webpage disagree: prioritize the current official route page, live arrival information and a direct call to HopeSource Dispatch.
Zero-fare service
How Much Does Route 12A Cost?
Central Transit Route 12A is fare-free for all riders. There is no cash fare, transit card, mobile ticket or transfer charge on the Ellensburg fixed-route system.
Adult fare
$0
Youth fare
$0
Senior fare
$0
Disabled-rider fare
$0
Route transfer
$0
ADA paratransit
$0 for eligible trips
No payment preparation is needed. Your more important checks are the route letter, correct stop, direction, departure minute and current alert.
How to Ride Route 12A Step by Step
Identify the correct loop.
Use the northern loop for CWU, Verge and Brooklane. Use the southern loop for Fred Meyer and Ruby and Umptanum.
Find the official stop sign.
Match the route, direction and stop number before waiting.
Arrive five to seven minutes early.
A bus can reach an intermediate stop before a rough estimate.
Stand where the operator can see you.
The bus stops at unscheduled time stops when waiting riders are visible.
Wait until the bus stops completely.
Board after the door opens and take a seat promptly.
Wear the available seatbelt.
Central Transit’s rider guide states that passengers are required to wear seatbelts.
Pull the stop-request cord.
Signal early enough for the operator to stop safely at the next marked bus stop.
Exit after the bus fully stops.
Gather belongings in advance and never walk directly in front of the bus to cross the street.
Wheelchair Access, Paratransit and Mobility Assistance
Central Transit states that all fixed-route buses are ADA accessible. Vehicles have accessible lifts, securement equipment and priority seating.
Mobility devices
Keep batteries charged, tires inflated and removable parts secure. The operator uses tie-downs and passenger restraints.
Three-wheel scooters
They are allowed, but Central Transit advises transferring to a passenger seat when possible.
Boarding help
Ask the operator for assistance when you feel unsteady or need help using the lift.
Portable oxygen
Portable oxygen devices are allowed but may not block the aisle.
Stop accessibility
Vehicle accessibility does not guarantee that every sidewalk or temporary stop is equally usable.
Accessible formats
Call 509-925-8680 for information in Spanish or Braille.
ADA Paratransit
Who may qualify
Riders whose disabilities prevent them from using or independently navigating the fixed-route system.
Service area
Door-to-door shared rides within three-quarters of a mile of the fixed route inside Ellensburg.
Apply
Apply through ADA Ride at 877-232-7433 or contact HopeSource at 509-933-2287.
Reserve
Schedule at least one day in advance. Trips may be reserved no more than 14 days ahead.
Bicycles, Strollers, Children, Animals and Carry-On Items
Bicycle racks
Each bus has a front rack for two bicycles. Riders load and unload their own bikes. Motorized bicycles are not permitted.
Children
Children younger than 10 must be accompanied by an adult or responsible person who is at least 14.
Strollers
Fold the stroller before boarding. Children must be carried or seated on the rider’s lap.
Pets
Non-service animals must remain in a cage or carrier that does not block the aisle.
Service animals
Service animals are allowed and must remain under control, at the rider’s feet or on the rider’s lap.
Carry-on items
Riders must manage their own belongings and keep aisles, doors and mobility areas clear.
Other rider rules: no eating or drinking, no smoking or vaping within 25 feet of buses and shelters, no hazardous materials, no open flames and no weapons.
No-service days
Route 12A Holiday Schedule and Winter Travel
Route 12A normally operates Monday through Sunday, but Central Transit provides no fixed-route or paratransit service on six listed holidays.
Central Washington University
Route 12A serves E 11th and N Maple near the Student Union and Recreation Center in both parts of the northern loop.
Verge and Airport area
Airport and Greenfield is a scheduled timepoint near Verge and the CWU aviation/food-bank area shown on the system map.
Brooklane Village
The published Route 12A timepoint is 18th and Brooklane, westbound.
Fred Meyer
Southbound and northbound timepoints use different stop numbers: 388 and 392.
Downtown Ellensburg
Ruby and 4th is the central timepoint connecting the northern and southern sections of Route 12A.
Regional travel
Central Transit’s rider guide lists Kittitas County Connector, Yakima–Ellensburg Commuter, Bellair Airport Shuttle, FlixBus and Greyhound among regional options.
Connection warning: confirm the regional carrier’s current boarding location and departure time separately. A Route 12A arrival does not guarantee a protected connection.
Practical Route 12A Trip Examples
Downtown to SURC
Board at Ruby and 4th northbound stop 324 at :10. The published SURC timepoint is six minutes later at :16.
Downtown to Verge
Board the north loop at :10. Airport and Greenfield is published at :25, about 15 scheduled minutes later.
Verge to downtown
After the :25 Verge timepoint, the bus returns through Helena, Brooklane and SURC before reaching downtown at :52.
Downtown to Fred Meyer
Board the southern loop at :52 from downtown stop 320. Fred Meyer southbound is published at :57.
Fred Meyer to downtown
Use northbound stop 392 at :05. The bus reaches downtown northbound stop 324 at :10.
Missing Route 12A
Check whether Route 12B serves the same stop approximately 30 minutes later before arranging another trip.
Rider assistance
Central Transit Contact and Lost-and-Found Information
Lost and found: call HopeSource Dispatch at 509-933-2287. Provide Route 12A, direction, boarding stop, exit stop, date, approximate time and a precise item description.
Independent-site disclosure: busschedule.us does not operate Route 12A, control service, issue live predictions or guarantee departure times.
Route 12A Bus Schedule FAQs
Where does Central Transit Route 12A operate?
Route 12A operates in Ellensburg, Washington, serving downtown, CWU, Airport and Greenfield, Brooklane, Fred Meyer and Ruby and Umptanum.
What time does Route 12A start?
The first listed Route 12A departure from Ruby and 4th in downtown Ellensburg is 7:10 a.m.
What time is the last Route 12A bus?
The current route page lists a 7:10 p.m. downtown departure and a final listed downtown return at 7:52 p.m. Verify the final trip through the live arrival system.
Does Route 12A run on Sunday?
Yes. The official timetable lists the same timepoint pattern Monday through Sunday, except on Central Transit’s designated no-service holidays.
How often does Route 12A run?
Route 12A is listed hourly. Route 12B follows many shared timepoints approximately 30 minutes later.
Is Route 12A free?
Yes. Ellensburg Central Transit is zero fare for all fixed-route riders.
How do I track Route 12A?
Use Central Transit’s official interactive map, the Transit app or call or text the posted bus-stop number to 509-297-8861.
Does Route 12A serve Central Washington University?
Yes. E 11th and N Maple near the Student Union and Recreation Center is a scheduled Route 12A timepoint.
Can I take a bicycle on Route 12A?
Yes. Central Transit buses have front racks for two bicycles. Space is first come, first served, and motorized bicycles are not allowed.
Is Route 12A wheelchair accessible?
Central Transit states that all fixed-route buses are ADA accessible and have lifts. Eligible riders may also apply for zero-fare ADA paratransit.
Is Ellensburg Route 12A the same as Greensboro Route 12A?
No. Greensboro Route 12A is the Southtown Connector in North Carolina and has a separate schedule, stops, fare system and tracker.
What holidays does Route 12A not run?
Central Transit lists no fixed-route service on New Year’s Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, July 4, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
