Description
Transit service enhancements include extending transit network coverage or hours, increasing service frequency, and improving the reliability and appeal of public transportation.
Implementation Details
- Continue collaboration between SunLine and Desert Hot Springs to develop a mobility hub.
- Incorporate and connect other means of mobility such as microtransit, ridesharing vehicles, and park and rides to existing transit hubs.
- Expand services frequency on higher ridership routes such as Route 1WV/1EV and Route 2.
- Evaluate potential express route or BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) for regional service such as Route 10 and higher demand corridors, such as CA-111 for improved travel time and reliability.
- Reinstate the Buzz in Palm Springs and other small circulators that provide transportation services in pedestrian scaled environments.
- Install supportive infrastructure such as new bus shelters, ADA-compliant stops, and real-time signage at priority locations.
Mitigation Potential
Improving transit service access, coverage, and convenience, makes transit more convenient encouraging people to rely less on private vehicles. The impact on VMT will vary on the methods of improvement.
For more details, see CAPCOA, T-25. Extend Transit Network Coverage or Hours, pg. 183-186 and CAPCOA, T-26. Increase Transit Service Frequency, pg. 187-192 for VMT reduction quantification.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
Transit expansion should prioritize areas with high concentrations of transit-dependent populations, including low-income residents, seniors, and essential workers. Late-night and weekend service is critical for shift workers. Equity goals should include minimizing headways in underserved areas and ensuring accessible transit for riders with disabilities through ADA-compliant infrastructure and real-time info tools.
Funding Sources
Requires significant funding. Funding sources include the Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Grants and the Low or No Emissions Bus Grants (Federal Transit Administration), the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program – Sustainable Communities – Competitive and Technical (Caltrans), and the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (California Department of Housing and Community Development).
Examples/Case Studies
Bay Area Transit Transformation Action Plan
The Bay Area Transit Transformation Action Plan is a significant initiative aimed at reshaping the region’s transit system to be more connected, efficient, and user-focused. Key aspects of the plan include improving connectivity within the regional transit system, enhancing safety and reliability through cleaner and safer services, and making transit more affordable and accessible.
Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) New Transit Service Plan
This plan encompasses various strategies aimed at balancing the needs of pedestrians, transit users, bicyclists, vehicle operators, and goods movement. Among the notable projects is the expansion of the LAnow service, a microtransit pilot program providing flexible, affordable, on-demand transportation