City launches Better Bus plan for 30-minute service to grocery stores

San Antonio's Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has unveiled an ambitious plan to enhance public transit services, promising a transformative shift in bus frequency and accessibility. The Better Bus plan aims to ensure that all bus routes will operate with a frequency of 30 minutes or better, eliminating the current reliance on 60-minute service. This change is expected to significantly improve access to essential services, including grocery stores, particularly in areas identified as food deserts.

The new schedule will expand service hours during weekdays, running from 6 AM to 7 PM, which will provide residents with greater opportunities to utilize public transportation for shopping, work, and leisure activities. The committee emphasized that the implementation of this plan will not only increase the frequency of buses but also enhance overall service quality, with some routes offering buses every 15 to 20 minutes.

Committee members acknowledged concerns about underutilized bus routes, particularly in certain districts. However, they highlighted the importance of these services for residents traveling from various parts of the city to access employment and educational opportunities. The committee's commitment to improving public transit is seen as a crucial step toward fostering greater mobility and connectivity within San Antonio.

As the Better Bus plan moves forward, residents can look forward to a more efficient and accessible public transportation system that aims to meet the needs of the community and address longstanding issues related to food access and mobility.