LIVE @ Asheville Transit Committee Meeting 05/21/19

Asheville Transit Committee Meeting Recap: May 21, 2019 – Focus on Rider Experience and Future Planning

The Asheville Transit Committee convened on May 21, 2019, with a focus on improving rider experience, addressing safety concerns, and planning for the future of Asheville’s transit system. The meeting included a diverse range of participants, including committee members, city staff, representatives from community organizations like the French Broad River NPO and Dust Economics, and concerned riders. The committee's role, as clarified at the beginning of the meeting, is to provide input and guidance to the Asheville Transit System and City Council – not directly controlling operations.

Key Decisions & Appointments: The committee formally approved the meeting agenda and minutes, including an amendment to add a report from the French Broad River NPO. A significant decision was made regarding filling vacancies on the Multimodal Transportation Commission, with a vote to recommend Paul Broseback and Joseph Chesler for consideration. This commission plays a crucial role in regional transportation planning, so these recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council for their review.

Discussion Highlights: Addressing Rider Concerns & Planning for Growth: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, revealing a range of concerns and suggestions from riders. Several individuals highlighted improvements at the transit center (cleaner bathrooms, new signage) but also raised concerns about driver communication and clarity of information provided in Trailblazer brochures. A veteran’s testimony underscored the need for sensitivity and respect when serving disabled riders, particularly regarding driver behavior and safety at bus stops. Beyond individual experiences, discussions centered on the need for extended service hours – a key component of the Transit Master Plan - and improvements to bus stop signage, particularly regarding efficient transfer systems. The committee also explored potential solutions for issues with the transit app and discussed safety concerns surrounding a bus stop on Wood Avenue. Looking ahead, conversations touched upon the potential implementation of a "Smart Drive" system to enhance driver safety and communication.

Community Input: Voices Heard & Concerns Shared: The public comment period provided valuable insights into the daily experiences of Asheville transit riders. Richie Razzell from the French Broad River NPO invited the committee to a regional transportation summit, highlighting ongoing multimodal initiatives. Amy Cantrell from Dust Economics welcomed a new community organizer and emphasized the importance of advocating for extended service hours with City Council. The collective feedback painted a picture of a system undergoing positive changes, but also one with areas needing immediate attention to improve rider safety and convenience.

Action Items & Next Steps: Addressing Immediate Needs & Long-Term Goals: Following the discussions, several action items were assigned to transit staff. These include verifying driver communication protocols regarding passenger transfers, investigating the safety of the Wood Avenue bus stop and exploring solutions, providing information on extended service hours for each route as outlined in the Transit Master Plan, and investigating advertising opportunities to potentially generate revenue. Committee members were also encouraged to consider applying for vacancies on the Multimodal Transportation Commission, ensuring continued citizen involvement in regional transportation planning.

Why This Matters to You: The Asheville Transit Committee's work directly impacts the accessibility and efficiency of public transportation for all residents. Addressing rider concerns, exploring technological improvements like a Smart Drive system, and advocating for extended service hours will contribute to a more user-friendly and reliable transit system. The committee's recommendations for the Multimodal Transportation Commission will influence regional transportation planning, ensuring a coordinated approach to meeting Asheville’s evolving mobility needs. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the Transit Master Plan and future committee meetings, as their input is vital to shaping a transit system that serves the community effectively.