NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — Direct buses are back in service, connecting the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) terminals in New Bedford and Fall River. The SRTA announced last week that the Route 9 – Intercity Express would return on Dec. 15, offering riders a nonstop trip between the two cities. The service runs hourly starting at 6:15 a.m. on weekdays and 8:15 a.m. on weekends. The service ends at 10:10 p.m. on weekdays and 8:10 p.m. on weekends. MORE: SRTA’s Sunday bus service is here to stay According to the SRTA, the travel time will be around 25 minutes, about half the time as the previous option. The intercity route that makes stops at the Dartmouth Mall and UMass Dartmouth will remain in service. The SRTA said it will only be stopping at the university's Flagpole stop as its new buses can no longer fit under the Campus Center. The new service option was funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's Regional Transit Authority Connectivity program.  "Residents across our state rely on Regional Transit Authorities to get to work, school, the grocery store, doctor’s appointments, and more," Gov. Maura Healey said in a press release. "This funding will increase service options and make commutes easier, in addition to our recent investment to make service free at most RTAs." NEXT: Providence City Council removes RIPTA bus hub relocation from 10-year plan Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW