Regional Leaders Celebrate Lake Link Expansion with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies Across the South Shore
Stateline, NV – Transportation leaders, local elected officials, community partners, and residents gathered yesterday (July 23, 2026) on both sides of the state line to celebrate the expansion of Lake Link with ribbon-cutting ceremonies marking a new chapter in regional transportation across Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
The celebrations, held at the Tahoe Ridge Resort in Nevada and the South Tahoe "Y" Transit Center in California, recognized the successful expansion of Lake Link's fare-free, on-demand microtransit service and the regional partnerships that made the project possible. Together, the events highlighted the shared commitment of California and Nevada agencies to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and provide convenient transportation options for everyone who lives, works, and visits the South Shore.
"This expansion reflects the strength of our regional partnerships and our shared commitment to improving transportation for everyone who lives, works, and visits the South Shore," said Douglas County Commissioner Sharla Hales. "Lake Link's continued growth shows what's possible when local governments and community partners come together to invest in connected, reliable transportation options that benefit our entire region."
Lake Link's expanded service, which launched July 15, now provides fare-free rides across nearly the entire South Shore, Including the top of Kingsbury Grade Road, Zephyr Cove, Lake Tahoe Airport, South Tahoe "Y," Gardner Mountain, and Tahoe Keys. The expansion also introduced a new three-zone system that seamlessly connects Lake Link's on-demand service with Tahoe Transportation District Route 50 transit service through a single booking experience in the updated Lake Link app.
"The expansion of Lake Link is a major milestone for transportation in the Tahoe Basin. What started as a project to provide transit for Tahoe Blue Event Center events has become a resource for both our Nevada and California communities," said South Shore Transportation Management Association Board Chair Chris Proctor. "In four short years we have focused on connecting more neighborhoods, destinations, jobs, and recreation opportunities with free, convenient transportation options, we're making it easier than ever for people to choose alternatives to driving."
Riders traveling within a zone continue to enjoy door-to-door service, while longer trips are automatically coordinated through transfers, making regional travel easier than ever while keeping rides fare-free.
The expanded service is a cornerstone of the region's growing Car-Free, Care-Free Tahoe initiative, which aims to make it possible for residents and visitors to park once and enjoy everything Tahoe has to offer without relying on a personal vehicle. By connecting neighborhoods, employment centers, lodging, recreation, transit hubs, and community services, Lake Link complements local and regional transit, bike infrastructure, seasonal shuttles, and other mobility options that reduce traffic while protecting Lake Tahoe's environment.
Lake Link continues to operate seven days a week with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and no fare for riders:
- Sunday–Thursday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Residents and visitors can learn more about Lake Link and download the app at tahoelakelink.com.