Tips to Using the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA)

Reetikaa Munnangi in podium.
by Reetikaa Munnangi, UAlbany MS Data Science Student and Graduate Ambassador.

As someone who frequently uses the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) buses to navigate Albany, I’m excited to share my experiences and tips to help new students make the most of this convenient and free resource. Whether you’re commuting to campus, exploring the city, or running errands, mastering the CDTA system will be a game-changer for your time in Albany!

Starting Point: How Far Am I From Campus?

The distance between my house and campus is about 2 to 3 miles, or a 10 min bus ride. It's quite convenient that the nearest bus station is only 2 minutes' walk from my house. Bus stops are positioned thoughtfully across Albany, and the majority of the main UAlbany facilities also have stops close by. Tip: As you look for housing, make sure it is near a bus stop!

How to Ride a CDTA Bus:

  • Using your student ID to board: Just swipe your UAlbany student ID on the card reader next to the driver to get on a CDTA bus and ride for free.
  • Checking Schedules: For real-time bus schedules, use Google Maps or the CDTA Navigator App. You can track the location of the next bus and see when it will arrive. To make sure you're getting on the correct bus, pay attention to the name and route number that are displayed on the front and back.

Know Your Routes: 

The most popular routes for UAlbany students include:

  • Route 910 (UAlbany Shuttle): Direct to campus locations.
  • Route 10 (Western Avenue): Great for getting to downtown Albany.
  • Route 905 (BusPlus Red Line): A faster option connecting Albany to Schenectady and Troy.

Best Advice for CDTA Passengers:

  • Timing Is Everything: Plan your trips around the bus schedule to avoid long waits. 
  • Stay Safe: Use well-lit stops at night and be mindful of your belongings.
  • Bring Entertainment: A podcast or book is perfect for longer rides.
  • Avoid Missing Your Stop: If you're unsure where to get off, let the driver know your destination—they're usually happy to help.

Favorite Non-Campus Destinations:

CDTA buses don’t just connect you to campus—they open up the whole city! Here are a few of my favorite spots:

  • Washington Park: Perfect for relaxing, especially during the Tulip Festival in spring.
  • Crossgates Mall: A short ride away, it’s great for shopping, dining and to watch a movie.
  • Downtown Albany: Explore historic landmarks, local coffee shops, and the Empire State Plaza.
  • The Pine Bush Preserve: Ideal for hiking and escaping the hustle of campus life.

Knowing how to use CDTA buses will allow you to travel freely throughout Albany and beyond, in addition to saving money. The bus system is your entryway to all that the Capital Region has to offer, whether you're exploring new hangouts, shopping, or commuting to classes. So, grab your UAlbany ID, download the CDTA app, and start exploring! To learn more about your travel options as a student at UAlbany, visit our Mass Transit website.