SACOG Board of Directors Approves the Next Generation Transit Strategy
October 27, 2021: The SACOG Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve the region’s Next Generation Transit Strategy. The strategy reimagines public transportation and provides a vision for the future of mobility that emphasizes moving people, not just moving buses and trains. By improving speed, inter-regional connections, technology, and the rider experience, the region can meet its greenhouse gas reduction targets, reduce traffic in the region, and expand mobility for disadvantaged communities.
Goals for the Next Generation Transit Strategy:
- Fast and reliable: Getting around by transit is fast, reliable, and competitive with driving.
- Equitable: Reduced disparities in travel time and cost; more travel options for disadvantaged communities.
- Moves the economy: Improved transit access to top employment centers and destinations.
- User friendly: Transit feels easy, seamless, and safe for all users.
- Interconnected: More coordination between agencies leads to better service for all.
- Cost-effective: Makes the best use of public dollars by minimizing cost while maintaining or increasing ridership.
- Financially sustainable: Service is adequately and consistently funded.
- Climate smart: Meets or exceeds targets for renewable energy, emissions, and VMT.
Even before the pandemic, the regional transit system has been challenged with declines in ridership and funding. The Next Generation Transit Strategy provides a framework for transit operators and jurisdictions to address these challenges. Informed by a policy advisory committee, technical advisory committee, and stakeholders, as well as feedback from the SACOG Board of Directors, the strategy addresses how to build a transit system that provides a seamless user experience, expand funding and service frequency, and reduce mobility disparities.
Implementation of the strategy will be driven by SACOG and will require continued partnership and support to move to fruition. There are plans in motion to arrange funding for and begin work on the strategy by the end of the year.