Transit Authority Endorses Blueprint for Public Transportation Expansion through 2030
Community Transit Unveils Long-Term Transit Development Plan for 2025-2030
Community Transit, the transportation agency serving Snohomish County, Washington, has approved a six-year Transit Development Plan (TDP) for the years 2025-2030. This strategic document, along with the Long Range Plan and the agency's biannual budget, forms a comprehensive blueprint for Community Transit's future growth and service improvements.
The TDP, a six-year planning document as required by Washington State law, outlines planned transit improvements, service expansions, asset management, and compliance with federal regulations like Title VI. It aims to ensure non-discrimination in service and aligns with current needs and regulations, submitted to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) annually.
The Long Range Plan focuses on the long-term vision for transportation within Snohomish County. It historically sets priorities such as enhancing transit connectivity, expanding rapid bus services like Swift, upgrading park-and-ride facilities, and transitioning to zero-emission fleets.
The TDP for 2025-2030 specifically includes an expansion of bus service, both in terms of hours and routes. Zip Shuttle service will also be expanded as part of the service expansion. However, the TDP does not specify any changes or updates for the rural transit services or student transit services.
Some existing bus routes will see an increase in frequency, and the TDP forecasts the financials of the agency for the next six years. Community Transit is planning to expand its services by building the Swift Gold Line and extending the Swift Green Line.
The transit system's customer experience will be enhanced with improved bus stops, digital signs on buses and at stops, and enhanced security programs. Community Transit is transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet, with continued pilots of battery-electric and fuel-cell electric buses, the purchase of additional zero-emission buses, infrastructure planning, and fleet planning.
The TDP will explore new ways to connect people with transit, offering them better choices. Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz stated that the TDP reflects the diverse needs of Snohomish County residents. Financial sustainability is a priority for Community Transit, with a focus on growing responsibly, maintaining financial stability, and preparing for changing economic conditions.
The TDP, Long Range Plan, and biannual budget work together to create a roadmap for Community Transit's future operations and projects. They support the agency's mission of providing accessible, efficient, and equitable transit services in Snohomish County, ensuring that the transit system can meet growing demand, improve service quality, and contribute to the county's broader transportation and environmental goals over the 2025-2030 period.
- The long-term transit development plan for 2025-2030, approved by Community Transit, encompasses expansion of bus service in terms of hours and routes, including an extension for Zip Shuttle service.
- Alongside service expansions, Community Transit is Transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet, with continued pilots of battery-electric and fuel-cell electric buses, infrastructure planning, and fleet planning.
- Financial sustainability is a priority for Community Transit, as they aim to grow responsibly, maintain financial stability, and prepare for changing economic conditions.
- The transit system's infrastructure will be upgraded to enhance the customer experience, with improvements like digital signs on buses and at stops, improved bus stops, and enhanced security programs.
