Description
Extending transit network coverage or hours can improve the reliability and appeal of public transportation. By offering more hours of operation or covering a larger service are can accommodate more of the service population and encourage more ridership.
Implementation Details
- Implement the MASCOTS (Marin-Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service Plan) approved service changes, including routing changes to Routes 22, 29, and 71.
- Incorporate and connect other means of mobility such as microtransit, ridesharing vehicles, and park and rides to existing transit hubs.
- Evaluate coverage gaps in Western Marin County, rural communities, and areas not served by fixed-route transit.
- Install supportive infrastructure such as new bus shelters, ADA-compliant stops, and real-time signage at priority locations.
Mitigation Potential
Improving transit service access, coverage, and convenience, makes transit more convenient encouraging people to rely less on private vehicles. The impact on VMT will vary on the methods of improvement.
For more details, see CAPCOA, T-25. Extend Transit Network Coverage or Hours, pg. 183-186 VMT reduction quantification.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
Transit expansion should prioritize areas with high concentrations of transit-dependent populations, including low-income residents, seniors, and essential workers. Late-night and weekend service is critical for shift workers. Equity goals should include minimizing headways in underserved areas and ensuring accessible transit for riders with disabilities through ADA-compliant infrastructure and real-time info tools.
Funding Sources
Requires significant funding. Funding sources include the Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Grants and the Low or No Emissions Bus Grants (Federal Transit Administration), the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program – Sustainable Communities – Competitive and Technical (Caltrans), and the Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program (California Department of Housing and Community Development).
Implemented in TAM Area
Current TDM Implementation
MASCOTS (Marin-Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service Plan) is leading efforts to coordinate regional transit planning, including increases to frequency and adjusting service coverage. Individual agencies, like Marin Transit, mainly increase coverage by expanding service windows, but also with route adjustments.
TDM Benefit Locations
This TDM measure will be particularly effective near housing developments and areas that have been historically underserved by transit, like the Canal neighborhoods, Hamilton Field redevelopment area, and multifamily housing in Larkspur. Currently east-west transit connections are weaker, so that is an opportunity for service expansion.