LIVE @ Asheville Transit Committee Meeting 8/20/19

Asheville Transit Committee Meeting Recap: August 20, 2019

On August 20th, the Asheville Transit Committee convened to discuss improvements and future planning for our city's public transportation system. Dana Williams filled in as chair during the meeting, which included a significant portion dedicated to public comment and deliberations on key operational issues. The committee addressed concerns from riders, reviewed proposed service changes, and approved important steps towards modernizing and enhancing Asheville’s transit services.

A major focus of the meeting was passenger safety, a concern repeatedly voiced by numerous residents during the public comment period. Speakers like Matthew Supply highlighted issues with bus driver behavior and safety at bus stops, while Diane Allen strongly advocated for the implementation of a clear weapons policy on buses. Tammy Haney and Diane Allen also raised concerns about stroller and package safety, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines. Beyond individual incidents, several residents shared frustrations with route delays, missed stops, and a lack of clear communication regarding service disruptions. The committee acknowledged these concerns and committed to investigating potential solutions, including improvements to the "smart driver" system and exploring options for clearer bus doors.

Beyond safety, the committee made several key decisions impacting transit services. They unanimously approved a plan to purchase seven new buses – four diesel and three hybrid – balancing cost considerations with the desire for a more environmentally friendly fleet. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing an amendment to the contract with RATP Dev, the company operating Asheville’s transit system. This amendment will incorporate funding and staffing for planned service increases in January, strengthen performance measures to improve accountability, and ensure the system can meet growing demand. The committee also voted to accept staff's recommendation regarding a potential change to the S6 bus route, prioritizing service within city limits while recognizing that county funding will be necessary for any expansion into Mayhack. Finally, the committee agreed to a simpler naming system for new routes, utilizing directional lettering (like W3 or E1) instead of more complex names.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community involvement in shaping Asheville's transit future. The public comment period provided a valuable platform for residents to share their experiences and concerns directly with the committee. Moving forward, several action items were identified: staff will investigate smart driver system improvements and speed limits, explore the cost of clear bus doors for enhanced safety, and consult with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) regarding new bus purchases and safety measures. The proposed contract amendment will be presented to City Council on August 27th for final approval, and a Transit Committee retreat is scheduled for October 18th to discuss long-term transit planning goals.

These discussions and decisions will directly impact Asheville residents by potentially leading to safety improvements, service adjustments, and enhanced accessibility. The committee's focus on passenger safety, improved communication, and collaboration with the county demonstrates a commitment to building a sustainable and responsive transit system for our community. For more detailed information, please visit the City of Asheville website under the Transit Committee section.