A bus route is the designated path that a specific transit service follows, including all the streets traveled and stops where passengers can board or exit. Routes are typically identified by numbers or names and shown on transit maps. Transit planners design routes to balance coverage (serving many areas) with speed and efficiency (direct travel between major destinations). Route planning considers population density, major destinations (schools, hospitals, employment centres), transfers to other routes, and travel patterns. Routes are periodically reviewed and adjusted based on ridership data, development patterns, and community input.