The new VIA bus designs enhance the commuter experience in San Antonio.
VIA Metropolitan Transit in San Antonio is implementing significant improvements this spring, including increased bus frequency and reduced wait times across five key routes. These changes aim to accommodate the evolving travel patterns post-COVID and enhance rider experience. A public hearing scheduled for February 19 at the VIA Metro Center will allow community members to voice their opinions. With plans for new rapid bus routes and recruitment drives for drivers, VIA is focused on improving transit services for the community’s needs.
Hey there, San Antonio! Buckle up because we have some fantastic news for all of you commuters out there. VIA Metropolitan Transit is gearing up to roll out changes to five of its key routes this spring! These changes are all about making your ride more enjoyable by increasing frequency and reducing wait times. That means, instead of waiting around for your bus, you’ll spend more time getting to where you need to go!
Now, here’s the scoop: while VIA officials haven’t given an exact start date for the new changes, something you can do right now is mark your calendars for a public hearing scheduled for February 19 at 5:30 p.m. This meeting will be held at the VIA Metro Center, located at 1021 San Pedro Avenue. It’s a great chance for you to share what you think and help shape the changes to better meet our community’s needs!
So what’s behind this shift, you might wonder? Well, VIA’s decision was influenced by the changing travel patterns we’ve seen post-COVID, alongside requests from the public and a focus on operator availability. This all ties into what they’re calling the “Better Bus Plan.” This ambitious plan aims to add rapid bus routes and draw some existing routes anew while also expanding their ride-hailing service. The primary goal? To ensure a bus frequency of at least every half hour during peak hours. Sounds good, right?
Here’s a little data to ponder: Right now, almost half — specifically 49% — of VIA’s routes arrive less often than every half hour. Just a few years ago in 2019, that number was merely 16%. The drop in performance certainly isn’t ideal, and it largely stems from a shortage of drivers, a problem worsened by retirements during the pandemic.
In response, VIA is seriously on the hunt for new drivers. They are offering enticing sign-on bonuses of up to $4,000 for bus drivers and $6,000 for mechanics! This initiative is part of the plan to bolster their workforce over the next five years, helping them maintain and enhance the improvements they’re working to implement.
And that’s not all! VIA is also rolling out four new zones in the VIA Link service, which you’ll be able to access using a smartphone app. One of these zones will cover the bustling Loop 1604 and U.S. 281 area, including the growing Stone Oak region, while another will focus on the Medical Center district. Plus, there will be two zones to improve access to the upcoming Silver Line, a rapid transit line set to break ground in 2027.
VIA doesn’t plan to stop there! They aim to break ground on another Advanced Rapid Transit line, the Green Line, in 2025. This line will connect various areas south of downtown up to San Antonio International Airport. Imagine being able to catch a bus every 10 minutes on weekdays – how convenient would that be for your busy schedule?
With about 56% of VIA passengers not owning a car, the importance of a flexible and reliable transit system can’t be overstated. Many riders depend on transfers during their trips, and the Better Bus Plan intends to tackle this issue head-on. It aims to cut down on transfers, expand late-night service, and improve access to essential job opportunities and downtown.
In a nutshell, VIA’s Keep SA Moving initiative, which encompasses the Better Bus Plan, is all about enhancing transit service and infrastructure in the face of ongoing challenges. So, whether you ride the bus daily or just once in a while, get ready for a brighter future of seamless travel in San Antonio!
VIA Metropolitan Transit to Enhance Bus Service in San Antonio
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