Link Transit adds four new buses to serve Waterville and Mission Ridge

WENATCHEE — Link Transit announced plans to expand its regional transportation services with four new specially equipped buses designed to serve Waterville and Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort in North Central Washington.

The new vehicles feature advanced technology, including automatic chains, self-leveling suspension, and engine-braking systems specifically engineered for mountainous terrain. The buses display custom graphics depicting ski slope scenes for mountain routes and farming landscapes for plateau service.

"We are thrilled to add these new buses to the fleet, which will directly improve service and accessibility for the Waterville and SkiLink routes," said Nick Covey, CEO of Link Transit. "This investment in our infrastructure reflects Link's commitment to providing high-quality transit services to North Central Washington."

The transit authority will unveil the first Waterville bus at a public ceremony scheduled for 3 p.m. January 7, 2025, at the Waterville Town Hall garage. The event will include refreshments and opportunities for community members to inspect the vehicle and learn about its features.

The SkiLink service provides fare-free transportation from Columbia Station to Mission Ridge Ski Resort, with an additional stop at Lincoln Park. The service operates on weekends and holidays during the ski season.

Route 25 to Waterville connects Columbia Station to the Douglas County Courthouse, serving East Wenatchee and Orondo via Pine Canyon. The route operates daily, with extended hours Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 7:12 p.m. and weekend service from 8 a.m. to 6:12 p.m.

Link Transit offers zero-fare service throughout North Central Washington seven days a week.