Campo updates Wake Transit Plan emphasizing regional rail and bus rapid transit

The Wake County government meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on significant updates regarding the Wake Transit Plan, hospitality taxes, and shelter plans. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance public transportation in the region, with a particular emphasis on community engagement and future investments.

Ben Howell, the Wake Transit Program Manager, presented an update on the Wake Transit Plan, which is a ten-year strategy aimed at improving public transportation across Wake County. Howell noted that the plan is currently being refined based on extensive community feedback gathered over the past year. This feedback is crucial as it will guide the prioritization of transit funding and investments for the next decade.

The Wake Transit Plan is structured around four key objectives: connecting the region, linking all Wake County communities, creating reliable urban mobility, and enhancing access to transit services. Howell explained that the plan is updated every four years and incorporates input from stakeholders and the community to ensure it meets the evolving needs of residents.

During the meeting, Howell discussed the importance of the community funding area program, which provides financial support to municipalities that previously lacked transit services. This initiative has successfully enabled many local governments to develop their own transit solutions or improve existing infrastructure.

The meeting also addressed the public's preferences regarding transit investments. Recent surveys indicated strong support for developing a bus rapid transit line between Raleigh and Durham, with 70% of respondents in favor. However, there remains a need for further education on the benefits and functionality of bus rapid transit systems, as some community members expressed skepticism about their effectiveness compared to personal vehicles.

Looking ahead, Howell mentioned that the final draft of the Wake Transit Plan is expected to be released this summer, followed by additional public engagement before its adoption later in the year. The ongoing discussions and updates reflect Wake County's commitment to enhancing public transportation and addressing the needs of its growing population.