The Wake Board of Commissioners offered their thoughts about the Wake transit plan for the first time at a work session on September 14. They also reviewed citizen input on the plan. After months of extensive outreach, over 4700 people have responded to the transit survey, 16,000 people have viewed the video about the plan, and over 250 presentations have been given. Learn more here.
Public comment revealed that citizens would like to see slightly greater emphasis on promoting higher ridership, than on greater coverage, which is a change from the current system (in which more resources are dedicated to covering a greater area for bus service). Survey respondents were equally divided on the question of spending resources on new infrastructure (such as rail or bus rapid transit) vs. expanding current bus service. Of the four proposed scenarios, no one rose to the top, indicating a combination of the plans is likely preferred.
County Commissioners emphasized points they believe should be addressed in the Wake transit plan. Many highlighted the need to serve low income communities and current bus riders. All commissioners indicated the desire to support a plan that includes rail. Commissioner Sig Hutchinson urged the importance of providing service to all 12 municipalities, and for getting started with a county system since the transit plan will only cover a ten year period. Commissioner Matt Calabria encouraged the Commissioners to adopt a “Statement of Principles” outlining the goals of the transit plan and the full rider experience.
The 70 member Wake County Transit Advisory Committee will meet again in October, and they hope to have a final draft plan ready in early December.