Community Transit released its draft 2022-2027 Transit Development Plan (TDP), which will help the agency deliver expanded and new transit services to better serve communities, while also planning for a longer-term transition to zero emission vehicles and infrastructure as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The agency’s draft also outlines the agency’s goals to offer frequent service to new regional light rail connections, expand service within the county and pilot new and innovative transit options customized to local community needs.
Key initiatives in the draft TDP
Strengthening local connections
The opening of Lynnwood Link light rail in 2024 will change the transportation landscape in Snohomish County, Wash., providing people with frequent and fast light-rail service into King County. Community Transit says it will take advantage of this opportunity to restructure service and provide connections to light rail as well as frequent and all-day service within the county.
In 2024, Community Transit will also expand the agency's bus rapid transit (BRT) network with the launch of the Swift Orange Line as well as expansion of the current Swift Blue Line. The agency is also planning for future BRT expansion through an extension of the Swift Green Line in Bothell and a new Swift Gold Line from Everett into Marysville and Arlington.
Safe, reliable service
As the agency expands service, it continues to actively recruit and hire bus drivers, maintenance staff and other staff in order to support this expanded network. Community Transit offers a $5,000 signing bonus for new drivers.
The agency says it is committed to a safe, healthy and equitable environment for riders and employees, and has prioritized security initiatives to ensure a welcoming workplace and ride. This includes reporting and tracking incidents and deploying additional resources during certain hours to provide security presence. Better lighting, video cameras and other design changes at stations are being tested in a pilot program along the Swift Blue Line route.
Innovative services
The agency is investing in innovative transit services that complement existing bus service, and provide convenient and equitable coverage, connecting more communities with regional service. The agency’s microtransit pilot program is slated to launch in Lynnwood in fall 2022, and plans for additional pilot programs will be announced soon.
Planning for zero emission vehicles
Community Transit pledges to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability by studying the feasibility of moving to a zero emissions fleet, and the infrastructure, systems and employee training required to support that transition.
Youth free fare policy
The Move Ahead Washington transportation funding package includes significant funding for agencies that adopt a policy eliminating fares for riders 18 years and younger. Community Transit is currently seeking public comment on this proposed policy change and looks forward to welcoming more young riders to its service should the board approve this policy change later this year.
The draft 2022-2027 TDP is available for review online and public comment is welcome through Aug. 4, 2022.
