West Fargo hears MATBUS five‑year transit study proposals; public open house set for March 7

City planning staff gave an informational update March 3 on the five‑year MATBUS Transit Development Plan update, which Metro COG and MATBUS are preparing to propose changes to fixed routes and service in the Fargo‑Moorhead metropolitan area.

Aaron Nelson, West Fargo director of planning, told commissioners the federally required transit development plan is preparing candidate scenarios for adjusting fixed routes that serve West Fargo. The city contracts with Fargo MATBUS for service; two West Fargo routes discussed were Route 20 (north side) and Route 24 (southwest area).

Nelson said two primary scenarios are under consideration: both include minor tweaks to Route 20, while Route 24 could either be merged with portions of Fargo service (scenario 1) or replaced in the southwest metro by on‑demand transit (scenario 2). He said the project team analyzed boardings and stop usage and identified lower‑utilization stops on outer portions of the network, which influenced the scenarios.

Nelson emphasized the proposals came from the project team and were not changes the city requested. He said public input is open throughout March and the project team will hold a public open house Friday, March 7, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Carlson Library in Fargo. An online survey and project website are available for additional comment.

Why it matters: Changes to fixed routes or use of on‑demand service could alter mobility options for residents who rely on transit and may affect where stops are placed in West Fargo. Commissioners noted past discussions about adding stops at neighborhood destinations and encouraged residents to use the public comment opportunities.

Next steps: The city will seek additional briefings from the project team and consider public input as Metro COG and MATBUS refine recommendations.