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The history of public transportation for the community of Brookings begins in April 1982 when the Brookings Transportation Committee for the Elderly and Handicapped was organized as a volunteer service group. Inter-Lakes became involved assisting them through the grants process and eventually to administer and operate the transit program.

A second vehicle was added to the fleet in 1987. 

The service was available to residents of Brookings and also the area communities. Local coordination was done with the nursing home facilities, ADVANCE and the Brookings Public School system. These were the only public vehicles that were accessible to accommodate wheelchairs.

Through increased ridership and transportation needs, in 1990 the decision was made to break away from the Inter-Lakes Community Action Program to allow the Brookings County Transportation for the Elderly and Disabled be a stand-alone agency. The name was changed to Brookings Area Transit Authority, Inc. (BATA). Transportation was expanded to all, without limit to age or ability.

The development of community and governmental relationships with Brookings and the surrounding communities has fostered increased coordination with nursing homes, assisted living communities, United Way, ADVANCE, youth programs, South Dakota State University, Chamber of Commerce, health care providers, employers, families, etc.

In 2024, BATA currently has 33 vehicles, 41 employees, and manages Dells Xpress and Freeman Community Transit.