MCTS Announces Major Transit Disruptions for Republican National Convention

MILWAUKEE, Wis (Civic Media) — Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) announced significant service disruptions and route detours for the upcoming Republican National Convention, set to take place from July 15 to 18.

The changes, affecting 14 bus routes and paratransit services, are due to extensive security measures implemented by the U.S. Secret Service. Detours will begin as early as today when security fencing installation starts around the convention’s hard perimeter, which includes Fiserv Forum, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena, and the Baird Center.

MCTS President Denise Wandke urged riders to plan for delays and allow extra travel time. “While we’re ready for this worldwide event, we ask everyone to allow more time in your travel plans and know that security measures could change service on short notice,” Wandke said in a statement Monday.

Major transit corridors will be impacted, including the East-West Bus Rapid Transit CONNECT 1 line. Other affected routes include BlueLine, GreenLine, and Routes 12, 15, 18, 19, 30, 31, 33, 34, 57, 80, and 81. Most rerouted services will be directed to 12th, Walnut, and Milwaukee Streets.

The transit agency expects normal service to resume on July 19, after the convention ends and security measures are dismantled. However, MCTS warned that last-minute changes could occur due to evolving security needs.

Paratransit services will also face restrictions. Transit Plus vans will only be permitted to enter the RNC’s “soft perimeter” for scheduled drop-offs. This area extends from West McKinley Avenue in the north to just past West Wisconsin Avenue in the south, and from Pere Marquette Park in the east to beyond North Lovell Street in the west.

Riders are advised to check the MCTS website for detailed information on specific route changes and temporary bus stop locations during the convention period.