The Cities of Concord and Kannapolis, and Cabarrus County, one of the fastest growing urbanized areas in the United States, are requesting an analysis of the current and future needs of public transit services in and around Cabarrus County. We are seeking proposals from experienced firms with demonstrated expertise and performance in long-range transit system planning, transit operational analysis, public engagement, and the integration of land use, demographic, employment, financial, and multimodal transportation system considerations in transit planning to prepare a Long Range Public Transportation Master Plan. We desire that a roadmap be developed to expand and improve the provision of public transportation services within Cabarrus County over the next 20 years.

Currently, both Demand Response (Cabarrus County Transportation Services — known locally as CCTS) and Fixed Route and ADA Paratransit (Concord Kannapolis Area Transit — known locally as Rider), operate within Cabarrus County. This study looks to find ways to enhance and build upon these services, improve coordination, analyze the advantages and disadvantages of consolidation of services, and plan over a 20-year span the likely transit service and funding needs of our area. This study will inform decision-making in the county so that scarce resources may be allocated in the most efficient and effective manner to deliver transit services today, while seeking means to develop additional resources to properly plan for and manage future demand and growth of public transit both within Cabarrus County, as well as regionally.

Parameters to be analyzed shall encompass service delivery, fiscal, staff, capital needs including facilities, vehicles and technology, customer service, and future service expansion, including potential new modes such as Light and/or Commuter Rail, Bus Rapid Transit, Express Bus Routes, and Vanpooling. The work elements should employ sound technical analysis and industry best practices. During the process, coordination with the Steering Committee and staff of the two public transit providers will be necessary.