Metro Transit proposes better bus service for $72 million a year
Metro Transit sees plenty of room for improvement in bus service. The agency's latest proposal lists 122 recommended changes over the next 15 years that would cost $72.3 million annually.
Under the draft plan, local and express bus service would expand in the Twin Cities metro with more frequent runs, longer service hours and extensions. The proposal, released earlier this month, also adds some new routes, including 14 reverse commute routes, for those who live in the city but work in the suburbs.
Metro Transit focused on making connections in first, second and even some third ring suburbs, said Kyle Burrows, an associate transit planner.
"Really, it represents a pretty significant potential improvement for both existing customers and potential new customers," he said.
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If all 122 proposed changes are funded, the plan would increase Metro Transit's annual bus operating budget 33 percent between 2015 and 2030.
Cyndi Harper, manager of route planning, said a regional sales tax for transit is one option to pay for the projects.
Work on the plan started in late 2013, Harper said. Metro transit users and others contributed ideas.
"Now that we have specific improvements that we have listed [in the plan], we want to get feedback on how we did with that," Harper said.
Metro Transit will hold six public meetings in November to get input on the draft.
The Metropolitan Council is expected to consider it for approval in early 2015.