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Lewiston-Auburn Transit to rework routes and add on-demand service under new contract; tracking to improve stop-level data
Summary
Council heard a briefing on a new five-year transit contract that will change routes, introduce demand-response zones and expand data collection at stops; staff said stop-level ridership tracking will be in place within a year.
Larry Allen and transit staff summarized the Lewiston-Auburn Transit (CityLink) budget and a pending change in contractor. The new contract includes service modifications, additional demand-response zones and upgraded technology for stop-level ridership tracking. Director Allen said the new provider presented a five-year pricing schedule and had the lowest overall cost and escalator.
Staff said the transit study performed in 2020–21 guided service redesign and that the new plan will convert low-ridership outer segments to demand-response zones while increasing frequency and one-seat rides in denser corridors. Allen said demand-response zones could be used in lower-use areas such as outer Main Street, outer Sabattus Street, outer Lisbon and industrial areas.
Councillors asked about stop-level data and accessibility. Staff said automatic passenger counters and software are being installed on half the buses now and will provide stop-level on/off data over the coming year. The presentation also noted grant-funded improvements to bus stop infrastructure: a MaineDOT infrastructure grant and a matching contribution that will fund shelters and stop upgrades.
