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Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) has unveiled its completely redesigned website, developed in partnership with Planeteria Media. Serving Benton and Franklin counties, the new site is designed to meet the growing needs of the Tri-Cities community—providing a faster, more intuitive way for riders to access transit information and services.

About Ben Franklin Transit

BFT delivers fixed-route bus, paratransit, vanpool, and commuter options across the Tri-Cities region, one of the fastest-growing areas in Washington. With population projected to increase by 50% by 2040, reliable digital tools are critical to keeping residents connected to jobs, schools, healthcare, and daily life.

Project Goals

BFT’s vision for the new site was clear:

• Create a mobile-friendly, accessible platform optimized for speed and search engines.

• Offer simple, intuitive navigation for riders, businesses, and community stakeholders.

• Integrate new features that make planning trips, purchasing passes, and staying informed easier than ever.

• Provide staff with a flexible, easy-to-manage content system backed by ongoing support.

Planeteria’s Solution

Planeteria reimagined BFT’s online presence with a customer-first approach, building a modern information architecture around what riders need most: maps, schedules, trip planning, and alerts. The site is fully ADA/WCAG 2.1 compliant, optimized for English and Spanish users, and includes SEO enhancements to ensure visibility. Staff received hands-on training and a long-term support plan to keep the site running smoothly.

Key Features & Functionality

• Trip Planner: Google Maps-powered tool to generate the best bus routes for any destination.

• Real-time information: Interactive maps, rider alerts, and live updates for routes and stops.

• Mobile-first design: Optimized for the 60%+ of users who access via phones and tablets.

• Online services: Secure storefront for bus passes, vanpool mileage calculators, and customer account tools.

• Customer engagement: Online forms, interactive chat, and integrated social media.

• Transparency tools: Easy access to board information, procurement, and compliance documents.

Project Highlights

The redesign focused on rider experience—prioritizing speed, clarity, and usability. Frequent riders can now get directions, buy passes, and check for service alerts within a few clicks. Businesses and residents benefit from easier access to procurement opportunities, careers, and board materials, strengthening community transparency.

Looking Ahead

With the new website as its digital foundation, Ben Franklin Transit is better equipped to serve the Tri-Cities as the region grows. Planeteria will continue providing maintenance, SEO support, and enhancements to ensure the site evolves with BFT’s expanding services.

👉 Visit the new Ben Franklin Transit website at www.bft.org