Retreat debate centers on whether to prioritize frequency and reliability or expensive zero‑emission buses

During the retreat staff framed transit needs around a 10‑year planning figure and system goals, including a target of 30‑minute service system‑wide and restoring Sunday service. Staff presented a $63,400,000 figure intended to represent the local match necessary to reach those objectives assuming state and federal support for the remainder.

Participants debated two distinct priorities: increasing frequency and reliability on routes to attract ridership, and investing in an alternative‑fuel fleet (battery electric or hydrogen). Several speakers said the local cost of zero‑emission buses and related infrastructure is high without federal funding and that the choice creates a trade‑off between frequency improvements and fleet decarbonization. One participant noted that if federal dollars are not available, “the local cost is substantially up” and urged a cautious approach.

Suggestions that emerged included piloting frequency improvements on high‑ridership corridors, pausing or revisiting the zero‑emission technology choice until costs and off‑ramps are clearer, and considering investing the cost delta in other mobility options (bike/ped infrastructure, targeted service increases) that could reduce car trips more cost‑effectively. Several participants asked for clearer regional funding agreements and a funding formula that would allow outlying jurisdictions and major employers to contribute.

The facilitator and staff reiterated that the workshop was for direction setting rather than final decisions. Staff will return with options, including pilot designs, updated cost estimates and proposals for regional partnerships and funding mechanisms.