In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant changes to the regional bus network aimed at improving public transit accessibility and efficiency. The meeting highlighted the evolving travel patterns post-pandemic and emphasized the need for a bus system that accommodates not just work-related trips but also medical, social, and educational journeys.

The proposed bus network, set for implementation in 2025, is the result of extensive public engagement and collaboration with various jurisdictions. Officials noted that they have received approximately 8,000 comments from the community, which have been instrumental in shaping the new service design. The plan aims to enhance service frequency and connectivity, particularly during off-peak hours, with projections indicating an increase of 22,000 additional riders on Saturdays and 46,000 on Sundays.

Key features of the proposed network include a focus on high-frequency routes, with a 47% increase in the number of routes offering service every 20 minutes or better. This redesign is expected to provide better access to job centers, hospitals, and educational institutions, ultimately serving over 146,000 residents across the region.

Officials acknowledged the challenges of resource limitations, stating that the new network will operate within existing budget constraints while striving to maximize efficiency. The plan includes consolidating bus stops on high-frequency lines to streamline service and improve travel times, although some areas may experience reduced service during peak periods.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue public outreach over the next nine weeks, gathering further feedback to refine the network before presenting it to the governing board for adoption in the fall of 2024. The collaborative effort aims to create a more user-friendly transit system that meets the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that public transportation remains a viable option for all residents.