Ben Franklin Transit has been keeping the Tri-Cities moving for decades, connecting residents to work, school, appointments and the places and events that bring our community together. In 2025 alone, BFT provided more than 3.5 million rides, serving approximately 13,000 residents each day across a 625-square-mile service area.
But during Fair week, the ride looks a little different.
Since 1993, BFT has provided special bus service to the Benton Franklin Fair, helping hundreds of thousands of fairgoers start and end their day with a safe, convenient ride. The drivers' enthusiasm for Fair week is unmatched. Many proudly call it their "Super Bowl," looking forward to welcoming guests aboard and sharing in the energy and excitement of the Best Week of Summer. In 2025 alone, BFT provided 30,641 free rides to fairgoers.
Today, the Fair and Ben Franklin Transit partner with CPPCo to provide free rides to the Fair, making it easier for families throughout the Tri-Cities to attend. It's a natural extension of BFT's commitment to accessible transportation. Kids, seniors and veterans ride BFT free year-round, and youth make up approximately 43% of the agency's ridership.
This year's Booster of the Year award recognizes more than a transportation partner. It honors the BFT drivers whose pride, dedication and community spirit have helped welcome generations of fairgoers to the Benton Franklin Fair.