Exciting Changes for Asheville’s Public Transit System
Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with good news for its public transport users! Starting on Monday, Oct. 14, Asheville Rides Transit (ART) is set to expand its service operations as road conditions improve. This is a big win for everyone in the area as it means more accessible transportation during the week and weekends!
Extended Service Hours
The ART team announced that select bus routes will now be available from approximately 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. This is a significant expansion, ensuring that riders have more flexibility to plan their journeys. And, for those who prefer to plan their outings on Sunday, you’ll be happy to know that the Sunday service hours will remain as they have been, sticking to normal operating times.
Free Rides Continue
What’s even better? ART services will continue to be free of charge during this transition phase, as confirmed by city leaders. That means you can hop on the bus without having to worry about tickets or fare changes. This initiative is a part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public transportation and ease accessibility for all residents and visitors.
New Flag-Stop Service Feature
One of the most exciting changes is the introduction of a flag-stop service. This means riders can now catch the bus at their preferred location along the route, making it even easier to hop on wherever it’s safe and accessible. You can always use the established bus stops, but this flexible approach offers more convenience for everyone!
Modified Routes and Additional Services
A big shout-out to the ART team for bringing back routes N1, S4, and 170 with some modifications starting on Oct. 14. If your commute involves Route 170, you’ll be glad to hear it’s being upgraded to a 30-minute frequency. For those who need rides to and from Haw Creek, adjustments in the service direction will ensure stops are served in a counterclockwise direction. Specifically, this will begin at stop 517, located at Beverly Rd at Tunnel Road, and will conclude at stop 529, New Haw Creek Road at Crockett Avenue.
Why These Changes Matter
Asheville’s transit system has been experiencing a surge in ridership, and it’s certainly about time we see some improvements! This increase is expected, given the recent efforts to enhance the user experience and make bus travel more appealing for everyone. The city’s focus on creating better road conditions has also played a vital role in making these changes possible.
Join the Movement!
So whether you’re commuting to work, school, or just looking for a way to explore everything Asheville has to offer, the ART team is ready to help you get there comfortably and efficiently. Remember to keep an eye out for those flag-stop locations and take full advantage of the free rides until further notice!
With these updates, it’s clear that Asheville is making strides to keep up with the demands of its growing population. These changes are paving the way for a better transit experience and making Asheville an even more wonderful place to live and visit. Let’s embrace these new developments and enjoy all the perks they bring!
