Transportation Options in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania: Getting Around Wilkes-Barre

Wilkes-Barre serves as a central transportation hub for the Wyoming Valley. Whether you are commuting to work, visiting local universities, or traveling out of town, the city offers a mix of public transit and highway access that connects Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) to the broader Mid-Atlantic region. Understanding the transportation options in Wilkes-Barre is essential for residents and visitors alike.

Public Transit: LCTA

The primary provider of public transportation in the city is the Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA). The LCTA operates a comprehensive network of bus routes that radiate from the Intermodal Transportation Center located in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

• City Connectivity: Regular bus service connects downtown to key neighborhoods, shopping centers like the Wyoming Valley Mall, and major employers.
• Regional Access: LCTA buses also provide links to nearby communities, including Kingston, Pittston, and Nanticoke, making them a vital resource for those without personal vehicles.

The Intermodal Transportation Center

Located near Public Square, the James F. Conahan Intermodal Transportation Center is the heart of the city's transit network. This modern facility serves as the main transfer point for LCTA buses and hosts intercity bus lines.

• Martz Trailways: For commuters heading to major metros, Martz Trailways operates daily service from the Intermodal Center to New York City (Port Authority) and Philadelphia. This service is popular among daily super-commuters and weekend travelers.
• Fullington Trailways: This carrier provides connections to other parts of Pennsylvania, expanding travel options beyond the immediate NEPA region.

Major Highways and Driving

For drivers, Wilkes-Barre is strategically located at the intersection of several major roadways, making it a logistics and commuting crossroads.

• Interstate 81: This is the primary north-south artery running along the eastern edge of the city. I-81 connects Wilkes-Barre to Scranton in the north and Harrisburg in the south.
• PA Route 309 (The Cross Valley Expressway): This crucial highway cuts through the valley, connecting Wilkes-Barre to the "West Side" communities (like Kingston and Dallas) and providing access to the Back Mountain region.
• The Northeast Extension (I-476): Located just south of the city, the Pennsylvania Turnpike's Northeast Extension offers a direct, albeit tolled, route to the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia.

Rideshare and Taxis

For on-demand transport, Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding Luzerne County towns. Traditional taxi services also operate in the city, providing alternatives for late-night travel or trips to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP).

Air Travel: AVP Airport

Located just a short drive (approximately 15 minutes) from downtown in nearby Avoca, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) connects the region to the world. Major carriers like American Airlines and United offer daily flights to hubs such as Charlotte and Chicago, providing easy global connectivity for business and leisure travelers.