Regional Transit Network Development Plan (RFP# 2021-10)

SACOG recently underwent an extensive effort to shape and define strategies for advancing regional transit initiatives in the region, outlining high level strategies that included the need to develop a truly regional transit network predicated on fast, reliable, high frequency transit service. The Next Generation Transit Study, adopted by the Board of Directors in 2021, identified a strong need for regional and intercity/intercounty/interagency travel (among other conclusions), which the current systems collectively cannot accommodate in an effective and efficient manner. As the region's designated transportation planning agency, SACOG is focused on ensuring that any transportation study, plan or investment is completed through a regional lens, while also exhibiting a clear connection to and benefit to other regional entities. As a means to initiate the implementation of the Next Generation Transit strategies, SACOG's first action item is to develop a regional transit network, inclusive of near-term speed and reliability improvements as well as long term network development. Tasks within this critical regional effort are related to: Corridor identification, including state highways and arterial roadways throughout the 6 County region, focused on regional connectivity and benefits; Level of transit service for the various corridors, such as BRT, Rapid, or Express services; Key connections and first/last mile opportunities, as well as modal integration across providers; Capital investments required for implementation, including TSP, dedicated transit lanes, vehicle requirements, branding, and fare collection strategies; Identification of station locations, in consideration with operational requirements, adjacent land uses, potential ridership, and integration with other modes of transportation ; Identification of governance, policy, performance and funding issues associated with implementation of a regional transit network; and Development of performance measures.