Asheville Residents Invited to Influence Transit Improvements

News Summary

Asheville residents have the opportunity to participate in shaping the city’s public transit future through a community-wide survey. This initiative, part of the ART Comprehensive Operational Analysis, welcomes input from all community members, regardless of their current usage of public transit. The quick survey is designed to gather valuable feedback to help align transit services with community needs. Alongside this, Hendersonville is also proposing improvements to its transit system with new routes and enhanced services, demonstrating a commitment to better public transportation in both cities.

Asheville Residents Encouraged to Shape Their Public Transit Future

Asheville residents have a golden opportunity to make their voices heard and play a crucial role in shaping the city’s public transit services. The city is rolling out a community-wide survey that is part of the ART Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA). This survey isn’t just fluff; it’s aimed at making sure the public transit system aligns perfectly with the needs of today and tomorrow.

Who Can Join In?

Whether you live, work, or simply drop by Asheville, your input is valuable! Everyone is invited to take part in this survey, regardless of how often you use public transit. It doesn’t matter if you hop on the bus daily or only sometimes use it to visit a friend — your perspective counts!

Quick and Simple

Now, you might be thinking, “I don’t have time for a long survey!” Well, the good news is that this survey can be completed in less than 10 minutes. Imagine how your answers will contribute to draft recommendations that are expected to come together by 2025. Isn’t that a great reason to spend a few quick minutes sharing your thoughts?

Multiple Ways to Get Involved

Don’t worry if you’re not the survey-taking type! There’s a whole bunch of other ways for you to get involved in this project. Apart from the survey, there will be additional rider and non-rider surveys, public meetings, and workshops just for stakeholders. Plus, you can stay tuned for updates via social media, newsletters, and through partner organizations. Keeping the community informed is key!

A Bonus on Earth Day

And Over in Hendersonville…

Transit Feasibility Study in Full Swing

Henderson County’s Transit Feasibility Study is reaching the finish line, and exciting changes to bus routes are on the horizon. Discussions about these potential changes are expected to be presented to the county Board of Commissioners. Among the recommendations, there are calls for Saturday and Sunday services, direct airport service, and extending the daily hours of operation. Say goodbye to inconvenient gaps!

New Routes on the Block

There’s even a new “Route 4” in the works, aimed to operate on Sundays. This route will provide a convenient 20-minute loop in downtown Hendersonville on weekdays and Saturdays, making it easier for everyone to get around. And it doesn’t stop there! Further phases plan to enhance service, including keeping Route 1 running until 7:30 p.m. and making half-hour services available.

The Voice of the People

Public input has highlighted the urgent need for more reliable service and increased coverage, especially for seniors and minority groups. As part of the solutions, free ridership will be offered for Blue Ridge Community College students and staff starting July 1. Education and transportation working hand in hand!

Funding and Fleet Updates

Apple Country Transit is operating with support from a mix of local, state, and federal dollars, all overseen by WNCSource. City council members are already discussing plans to diversify the transit fleet with gas-powered and, potentially, hybrid vehicles for a greener future!

Good News for Riders

The numbers speak volumes! Ridership has gone up from 50,000 users in 2022 to a whopping 70,000 in 2023. The transit services are clearly becoming more popular and better suited to the needs of the community, particularly for seniors who reside along major corridors.

Looking Ahead

The French Broad River MPO is also getting in on the action with its Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Elevate 2050. Starting in August, there will be opportunities for the public to provide input, guiding transportation decision-making for the future of the region.

It’s an exciting time for transit in Asheville and Hendersonville, with plenty of opportunities for residents to shape the services they rely on. So go ahead, make your voice heard! You might just help to create a better transit experience for everyone.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Asheville Regional Airport Welcomes Over 2 Million Passengers Again
UNC Asheville Sees Increase in Spring 2025 Enrollment
Asheville Prepares for PIT Count Amid Homelessness Surge
Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools Explore Merger
Exciting Developments in Seattle: A New Era for Urban Transport
Exciting Developments in Sunnyvale: Local Community Rallies for Change

Additional Resources

• WLOS: Asheville Launches Public Transit Survey
• Wikipedia: Public Transportation
• Blue Ridge Now: Public Input for 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan
• Google Search: Public Transportation Surveys
• Blue Ridge Now: Hendersonville Apple Country Transit Proposals