Reimagining Bus Networks

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• Approaches around the United States to redesign bus networks to better serve community needs
• How to evaluate potential redesign strategies for your region's bus network
• How overcome barriers to successful bus-network redesign projects

MORE SESSION DETAILS

In many cities, the bus networks operating today can be traced back to century-old streetcar routes. Though one of the perceived advantages of bus transit is its flexibility to operate anywhere, often bus networks have not evolved as the cities they serve have changed. Conversely, bus riders have come to understand and depend on these networks as they exist, and are often resistant to changing them. In this discussion, hear from four areas that are in different stages of planning redesigns to their bus networks. Houston, Texas, completed a much-heralded redesign of its entire network in 2015. King County, Washington, which includes Seattle, is embarking on a phased approach to restructuring its bus routes. New York City has proposed a redesign of its Staten Island-to-Manhattan commuter bus network. Finally, advocates in New Orleans are campaigning for a comprehensive rethink of their bus system. Planners will discuss strategies for effective network redesigns, obstacles to overcome, and lessons learned in implementing a level of change that can be intimidating for both riders and transit agencies.