Asheville Transit System Faces Urgent Need for Improvements amid Anticipated Ridership Surge

Improvements badly needed as Asheville transit system anticipates largest ridership jump

Asheville city leaders and community members are working to find ways to improve the transit system in Asheville. The city aims to increase ridership and provide better access between key stops and residential areas.

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Last month during the city council meeting, concerns were raised about the challenges faced by many people using Asheville Rides Transit (ART). “Our primary goals are to increase ridership and provide better access,” said Jessica Morriss, interim director for the transportation department.

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ART currently operates 18 routes, with the longest route being Route 170 serving Tunnel Road, Haw Creek, Swannanoa, and Black Mountain. Steven Rathpone, a frequent ART user, highlighted the long wait times during rush hour, especially on routes like the one to Airport Road.

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The city council plans to use a $300,000 budget to enhance existing services and improve the transit experience. A specialized “City-Focused Comprehensive Operation Study” will analyze post-Covid changes and travel patterns to provide targeted recommendations for improvement.

ART Ridership Numbers:

• Fiscal year 2021: 1.35 million
• Fiscal year 2022: 1.32 million
• Fiscal year 2023: 1.38 million

The estimated ridership for this year is 1.5 million, marking a significant increase. City officials are considering the possibility of offering late-night services in the future.