Asheville Reporter

The City of Asheville has announced the launch of the ART Comprehensive Operational Analysis, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing public transit services. This plan will assess ridership data, demographic trends, and roadway conditions to create both short-term and long-term recommendations for Asheville Rides Transit (ART). The project will be led by Jarrett Walker & Associates, a firm known for its expertise in transit planning.

The analysis seeks to shape the future of Asheville's public transit system by ensuring that routes and services align with the needs of residents, workers, and visitors. Key objectives include identifying strategies to improve service efficiency and reliability, addressing changes in demographics and land use that affect transit demand, supporting growth and accessibility improvements, incorporating lessons from Tropical Storm Helene, providing recommendations to enhance system resilience, and aligning resources with current and future operational requirements.

The City emphasizes transparency and community engagement throughout this project. Opportunities for public involvement will feature rider and non-rider surveys, public meetings, stakeholder workshops, as well as regular updates through social media channels, newsletters, and community partnerships. The initial phase of engagement is set to begin in April 2025 with on-board surveys targeting current riders alongside separate surveys designed for non-riders to identify barriers to using transit.

A new project webpage has been launched by the City where residents can learn more about the assessment process, stay updated on progress made so far, and provide their input.