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    1. Rail

    SamTrans launches Reimagine SamTrans

    Nov. 4, 2019
    The plan aims to improve the experience for existing customers, increase new ridership and build on efficiency and effectiveness transit provider. 
    Related To: San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans)
    SamTrans
    Sam Trans 5dc05eaf3a74d

    SamTrans has launched its Reimagine SamTrans project, a comprehensive operational analysis of the agency to pinpoint challenges and opportunities using data, public input and innovation to improve bus service.  

    With the passage of Measure W in 2018, SamTrans is poised to adapt its bus system to create a stronger, more reliable transportation system to better meet the public transit and mobility needs of those who live and work in San Mateo County. 

    Reimagine SamTrans began with three key goals in mind: 

    • Improve the experience for existing SamTrans customers. 

    • Grow new and more frequent ridership on SamTrans. 

    • Build SamTrans’ efficiency and effectiveness as a mobility provider. 

    Phase I of the project includes an assessment of the current state of the SamTrans bus system, as well as outreach and market research to identify what current and potential riders want from the bus service. The agency is conducting public outreach events throughout the county in November, including a virtual town hall online. Community members are also encouraged to participate in an online survey about SamTrans’ service and preferences for future improvements.  

    Phase I will culminate with the creation of a vision and set of guidelines for how to design bus service and measure future success. 

    Phase II will begin in spring of 2020 with an adoption of a new service policy framework by the SamTrans Board of Directors. Following adoption of the policy framework, the project team will develop up to three service design alternatives for each bus route in the system. Another round of public outreach in summer of 2020 will gather input on the alternatives before the board votes on a final bus system alternative developed based on public input. 

    Phase III will begin in fall of 2020 with additional public outreach and development of a plan for implementation of the new SamTrans bus system. The board will then adopt a new bus system design in winter of 2020 before implementation begins in 2021. 

    This project presents an opportunity to help shape the future bus and mobility system in San Mateo County. Redesigning the bus system allows SamTrans to make choices that will lead the agency into the future.