New bus route connects South Lake to Winter Garden

Lake County’s Transit Division has opened a new bus route, Route 50, to provide service between Mascotte and Winter Garden as of Dec. 1. 

Route 50 is a response to a growing need for connectivity between Lake and Orange counties. Transit officials expect more than 36,000 riders to use Route 50 in its first year.

“Our Transit Division has had many requests for service in this area over the years, so we are excited to launch Route 50,” said public information officer Elisha Pappacoda from the Lake County Board of County Commissioners.

Many former Winter Garden residents have moved to Clermont to pursue less expensive real-estate, but still work in Orange County. Conversely, many West Orange County residents have begun to pursue work in Lake County. Route 50 will serve both groups, even into the city: Commuters can transfer to LYNX 105 to Orlando at the Winter Garden LakeXpress stop. 

“Clermont is both a residential community as well as an employment hub, and we have many people commuting to work and commercial centers, as well as one of the area’s major employers, South Lake Hospital, where we have a bus stop,” Pappacoda said. 

There is also a stop at Lake-Sumter State College South Lake Campus, and students can ride for free to save gas money or commute to class without owning a car. 

The bus operates from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, except federal holidays. Anyone can ride Route 50 for free for the entire month of December.

After this month, fares will be $1 for all trips. Half-fares are available for seniors, veterans and disabled riders. Students can ride free, as well as children under age 5 who are accompanied by a fare-paying chaperone. There are also multi-day passes with discounts built in. 

Contact Catherine Kerr at [email protected].