Okaloosa County initiates Comprehensive Operations Analysis to improve Emerald Coast RiderTransit System

Okaloosa County has initiated a Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA), as the county continues working to improve the Emerald Coast (EC) RiderTransit System. The analysis is taking place with support from the Okaloosa-Walton Transportation Planning Organization and will be an in-depth evaluation that includes public input.

The contractor for the project, HDR Inc., will be conducting interviews with various stakeholders from municipalities, chambers of commerce and the county to gather a wide range of input to improve efficiency within the system. Additionally, HDR associates will be riding as passengers on EC Rider’s routes during a site visit in June to explore opportunities for further system-wide improvements.

“EC Rider can be a vital part of providing affordable and accessible transportation to residents and visitors,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “This comprehensive analysis will give us the opportunity to improve the existing system and explore new opportunities through thoughtful collaboration with local officials and other stakeholders.”

The results of the survey, interviews and ride-along will be analyzed to develop a plan to improve the EC Rider experience and a strategy for the implementation of a new plan is expected in early 2024.

The comprehensive analysis is intended to increase the value and efficiency of the public transportation system in Okaloosa County. By examining the performance of bus services, the COA will identify opportunities to repurpose transit resources from low-performing areas, with the ultimate objective to improve transit operations, increase ridership of tourists and residents and offer a robust, multimodal experience for the EC Rider service area.