VIA Metropolitan Transit Launches Advanced Rapid Transit Project

News Summary

VIA Metropolitan Transit is set to transform San Antonio’s public transportation with the launch of the Advanced Rapid Transit (ART) project. The project will introduce the Green Line, connecting key locations including the San Antonio International Airport and the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. Promising reduced travel times and high-frequency bus services, the ART aims to enhance commuter convenience and accessibility. Community engagement and significant funding have paved the way for this initiative, with construction expected to start in 2025 and completion targeted for 2027.

San Antonio’s VIA Metropolitan Transit to Launch Exciting New Transit Project

Hey there, San Antonio! Are you ready for some fantastic news about your public transportation? VIA Metropolitan Transit is all set to launch the Advanced Rapid Transit (ART) project, and it’s aimed at transforming the way we travel around the city. This project is particularly focused on two major corridors, promising a smoother and faster ride for everyone.

Introducing the Green Line

Let’s dive into the details! The Green Line is the star of the ART project and will introduce dedicated bus lanes along San Pedro Avenue. Thrillingly, this line will connect the San Antonio International Airport to the beautiful San Antonio Missions National Historic Park—a perfect route for travelers and locals alike. This initial phase will cover 11.7 miles, giving plenty of room for passengers to hop on and off.

But that’s not all! VIA is working hard to ensure that buses arrive every ten minutes during the weekdays. Yes, you heard that right—no more long waits at the bus stop! With high-frequency service in place, your commute will become more predictable and easier to manage.

Cool Features Coming Your Way

This isn’t just any old bus system; VIA is bringing in some cool features for your comfort and convenience. The new ART service will feature level boarding (goodbye, awkward stepping up and down!), off-board fare collection that speeds up the boarding process, and even transit signal priority to improve travel times. Can you picture this? Artistic renderings show dedicated boarding platforms in the center of streets, resembling those friendly light rail systems, which sounds super inviting!

Community Engagement and Input

VIA has been buzzing with community involvement over the past decade. They’ve actively engaged with San Antonians to gather valuable input on what everyone wants in terms of transit improvements. The focus? Increasing both the frequency and speed of service. It’s great to see such dedication to making your daily commutes better!

Connecting the Corridors

In addition to the Green Line, VIA is also considering a Silver Line that will stretch east to west, linking Our Lady of the Lake University with the Frost Bank Center. This broadens the connectivity options throughout the city and ensures you have better access to key destinations.

Why the Change Was Necessary

45% reduction in travel time compared to current bus services along these routes. That’s music to the ears of community members who are tired of unpredictable travel times!

Funding and Development Timeline

$446 million, with a hefty 60% coming from the Federal Transit Administration. Local taxpayers are also pitching in, thanks to a 1/8th-cent sales tax approved by voters in November 2020. Plus, a significant boost of $110 million was secured for the project in the House Transportation Appropriations Bill, so things are moving in the right direction!

Currently, the project is in its “final design phase,” with utility installations slated to begin in 2024 and actual construction of the bus lanes set to kick off in 2025. Mark your calendars—completion is expected by 2027, with the Silver Line possibly ready by 2029.

Business Concerns and Community Support

The Future is Bright!

1 million residents by 2040. Imagine the job opportunities and the need for efficient transportation! VIA anticipates that about 60% of its riders will use the service for work commutes, many of whom live below the federal poverty line, emphasizing the critical importance of reliable, accessible transit options.

Exciting times are ahead for public transit in San Antonio! Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to make your travel experience a breeze!

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Additional Resources

• Community Impact: San Antonio City Council Adopts Transit-Oriented Development Policy
• Google Search: San Antonio City Council Transit-Oriented Development Policy
• KSAT: Denser Development With Less Parking Greenlit for San Antonio’s New Green Line Rapid Bus Corridor
• Wikipedia: San Antonio
• KENS5: Rapid Transit Greenline VIA Housing Development Plan
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rapid Transit San Antonio
• Mass Transit Mag: VIA Metropolitan Gains Environmental Clearance of ART North-South Corridor Project
• Google Scholar: VIA Metropolitan San Antonio
• KSAT: Bexar County Approves $100M for VIA’s East-West Rapid Transit Line
• Google News: VIA East-West Rapid Transit Line