COAST - Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation

WHAT IS COAST?

The Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation, more commonly known as COAST, is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit charitable organization and an innovative leader in providing a broad range of public transportation services, connecting and coordinating a robust network of options for everyone.

COAST’s mission is to champion and provide customer-focused public transportation with a commitment to excellence in safety and service. 

We’re proud to have been recognized as the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year by the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce and the 2023 Champion of the Year by the Community Action Partnership of Strafford County.

WHO WE SERVE

Since 1982, COAST has been connecting the communities of the Greater Seacoast region of New Hampshire and southern Maine. In that time, COAST has transported more than 16 million workers, students, seniors, people living with disabilities, and families to work, school, medical services, shopping, social outings, and community events.

This year COAST is projected to provide over 400,000 rides (+15% over last year) within the Greater Seacoast area, connecting 11 communities with 13 bus routes. In addition to our bus routes, COAST also operates an advance-reservation service that provides curb-to-curb transportation for individuals who qualify based on age or disability.

WHY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ON THE SEACOAST MATTERS

Public transportation is an important piece of the economic and social puzzle on the Seacoast. 

Regional Connectivity & Equal Access—Affordable housing, jobs, social supports, and medical services are dispersed broadly across the Seacoast region requiring travel between communities. COAST connects everyone to the opportunities and services they need to succeed. 

Positive Economic Impact—Every dollar invested in COAST generates approximately $4.08 of local economy activity. COAST's annual local economic impact is currently estimated at $33 million.

Supporting Seniors & People Living with Disabilities—By providing transportation options beyond driving, COAST keeps people connected to their communities and the services they rely on. 

Climate Resiliency—COAST keeps an estimated 2.2 million pounds of carbon out of the atmosphere annually while also reducing congestion on the roads and making transportation more affordable for those riding. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP #FUNDTHEBUS

As a nonprofit, COAST’s annual $8-8.5M operating budget is funded through a blend of sources including: federal, state, and local grants and appropriated funds; charitable contributions from businesses, individuals, and foundations; and revenues from customer fares, partnership agreements, and advertising.

Federal funding requires a local match. When you make a donation during NH Gives, your donation will be help us access these critical resources and allow us to connect the people and communities around the Seacoast.

“Because of COAST, I have been able to go to beauty school and learn a new skill. I don't drive due to illness, but with COAST I can get around with my kids. We go out in the community every day. I also get to visit my mom.” – D, a COAST Passenger

Learn more at www.coastbus.org.