A new alignment for Parchment's bus route

People who ride the Route 6 bus in Parchment will see their stops move next month. Kalamazoo Metro Transit is shifting the route from Patterson Street to Ransom Street starting July 20, 2026. The change directly affects how Parchment residents access the bus and which neighborhoods get served.

Metro CEO Sean McBride said the adjustments are designed to better connect growing areas with key destinations.

"Route changes in our community are designed to enhance safety, respond to changes in our neighborhoods, and meet the needs of our riders. These new designs offer more frequent access to growing areas of the community. We are committed to shifting resources where they can provide the greatest benefit."

Why the route is moving

Metro officials say the realignment looks to boost access to new housing developments along Ransom Street near Gull Road, according to WWMT. The shift moves service away from Patterson Street, where the route has historically operated.

Residents who currently catch Route 6 along Patterson Street will need to adjust their commutes. The new alignment covers Ransom Street, which has seen recent residential growth in the area.

Other route changes affecting the county

The Parchment route shift is part of a larger set of four fixed-route changes across Kalamazoo County, according to a press release from Kalamazoo Metro. The changes take effect on the same date and include:

  • Route 1 (Westnedge Avenue): Buses will no longer turn into Meijer from southbound Westnedge Avenue. Metro says the change eliminates an unprotected left turn and improves efficiency. Riders heading to destinations along South Westnedge Avenue are expected to use stops at Andy Avenue, in front of the Grand Traverse Pie Company, or Kilgore Road near Hibachi Grill.
  • Route 5 (East Main Street): Service will expand to cover spots along Gull Road with hourly operation. Metro says this boosts access to grocery stores, medical facilities, schools, and employment centers.
  • Route 15 (Patterson Street): The route will introduce a new alignment that covers Burdick Street and Park Street Market for both inbound and outbound riders.

What riders should do

Metro advises riders to plan ahead before the July 20 changes take effect. Passengers traveling to the downtown Kalamazoo Transportation Center are advised to use Route 13 (South Burdick Street), which will continue to provide 30-minute service, according to Metro officials.

More information about the route changes is available on the Kalamazoo Metro website.