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Short-range transit plan alternatives analysis previews options for expanded hours, Route 20 changes and Sunday service
Summary
Consultants presented an alternatives analysis for RCTA’s short-range transit plan, including possible evening, Saturday and Sunday service changes, adjustments to Route 20 and prospects for funding to sustain long-route service.
The Del Norte County RCTA board received a preview of an alternatives analysis that will form the core of the agency’s short-range transit plan. Consultants from LSC presented findings from data collection, onboard and email surveys, and a review of the agency’s financial condition; staff said the full plan will return for deeper review later in the year.
Consultants working under a Caltrans sustainable communities grant reported ridership fell sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been recovering slowly; fixed-route trips last year were just under 77,000. Operating cost-per-hour has increased significantly while ridership recovery has lagged. Onboard and emailed rider surveys found value for fare rated highly and bus stop amenities and hours of operation rated lower.
The alternatives analysis examined scenarios for modest service expansions (more evening and Saturday hours), adding Sunday service locally to support the North State Express corridor, and targeted changes on Route 20 (including adding a morning commute trip and considering year-round service that now exists only seasonally). Staff noted Route 20 currently receives about $300,000 per year in outside support but that operating costs exceed that amount by more than double; additional outside funding would be needed to expand or sustain some proposed improvements.
The analysis also considered reductions in hours as a contingency. Staff said some changes already implemented—such as rerouting to serve Walmart after a schedule/location change with Curry Transit—were the result of recent operational adjustments.
Why it matters: the short-range plan will guide service changes and budget priorities for the coming years. Cost increases and uncertainty about outside funding were recurring themes; staff flagged that once pandemic-era CARES funds expire, the agency could face deficits in later years without new revenue or service adjustments.
Next steps: the board will receive the full short-range transit plan and deeper alternatives analysis at a future meeting (agenda date projected for August). Staff and consultants will continue work on funding strategies and performance measures.
Speakers quoted or referenced in this article include RCTA staff and the project consultants listed in the meeting packet.
