During a recent government meeting, Anna Peterson from Pierce Transit presented the \"Destination 2045\" long-range plan, outlining a vision for the transit system over the next two decades. The plan emphasizes performance-based planning and includes six focus areas: funding and budget, zero-emission vehicles, capital facilities, employee recruitment and retention, land use support, and technology innovation.

Peterson highlighted that the plan is fiscally constrained, meaning it will detail the costs and resources necessary to achieve its goals, which cannot be realized without additional funding. The outreach efforts for the plan have included traditional methods like public hearings and innovative approaches such as virtual open houses and community events, which have garnered over 700 responses—significantly more than previous outreach efforts.

The plan proposes four service expansion scenarios, each reflecting varying increases in service hours, ranging from 20% to 80%. These scenarios aim to enhance service frequency and coverage, particularly in underserved areas. A notable proposal includes a new route connecting Auburn Transit Center to the upcoming light rail station in Fife, which would operate hourly and seven days a week.

Council members raised concerns about safety on public transit, particularly regarding the potential future use of autonomous vehicles. Peterson noted that while safety concerns have not been as pronounced in Pierce County as in King County, they remain a priority for the agency.

The meeting concluded with a call for community feedback on the proposed routes and service expansions, emphasizing the importance of public input in shaping the future of transit in Pierce County. The draft plan is expected to be released by early December, with final approval anticipated in April.