STAR position on SacRT Forward

Below is the position statement of STAR on the final network plan of SacRT Forward. The plan will be considered at the SacRT board meeting tonight (Monday, February 25), with the staff recommendation being adoption by the board.

Sacramento Transit Advocates and Riders (STAR), welcomes this opportunity to comment on the final SacRT Forward Network Plan. We have participated in the entire public engagement process and feel that a good plan that considers the needs of riders and the community has been developed. The trade off in coverage and ridership (frequency) was addressed and a plan offered that balances these goals in an effective way.

  1. STAR supports the new network plan with its shift of resources to frequency and service span, because it will increase ridership, and reduce VMT and reduce GHG emissions. The focus on higher density areas and significant destinations is good, though we do recognize that there are equity implications for low and moderate density areas with low income residents. 
  2. We support the use of SmaRT Ride microtransit to serve low density areas that will not be directly served by the new network. We are concerned, though, that the microtransit pilot program may not be sustainable. There should be a plan for bringing back fixed route service in some areas if microtransit is not successful or sustainable. Microtransit should serve primarily to bring riders to and from fixed transit routes.
  3. In order to be successful, a significant investment will need to be made in education to encourage effective use of microtransit and assist riders in making increased transfers between bus routes.
  4. The airport is a critical destination for residents, tourists and workers. Higher frequency and longer span bus service to the airport should be part of the network plan. 
  5. The revision of Routes 30/38 so that they continue to serve Sacramento Valley Station is appreciated as SVS is a critical destination. 
  6. When additional funding becomes available to expand overall service, low income communities and their job destinations should be the first to receive reinstated or new service. 

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