In a recent meeting, local government officials and Metro Transit leaders convened to discuss the future of public transportation in the region. General Manager Leslie Candaris highlighted the importance of collaboration between Metro Transit and local government, emphasizing the agency's commitment to providing high-quality public transportation services.

Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, serves 76 cities across approximately 90 square miles. Candaris noted that while ridership is on the rise—up 9% in the first half of 2023 compared to the previous year—it remains at about 60% of pre-pandemic levels. The agency is actively working to adapt to changing travel behaviors, particularly as many commuters continue to work remotely.

Deputy General Manager Brian Funk provided insights into Metro Transit’s operational capabilities, detailing the deployment of around 700 buses and plans for increased service frequency, especially during peak times. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to electrify the fleet, with 25 new electric buses on order.

Nick Thompson, another Deputy General Manager, discussed significant expansions in the transitway system, including the upcoming Gold Line and other Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines set to open in the next few years. These projects aim to enhance connectivity, particularly in underserved areas of St. Paul.

The meeting also introduced \"Metro Transit Forward,\" a strategic framework designed to improve service quality and operational efficiency. This initiative is informed by extensive community engagement and aims to address the evolving needs of riders. A key component of this plan is the \"Network Now\" project, which seeks to increase service levels by 35% and improve access to jobs and essential services.

As part of the public engagement process, Metro Transit will launch a series of community meetings and surveys starting September 12, allowing residents to provide feedback on proposed service changes and improvements.

Overall, the discussions underscored a proactive approach to enhancing public transportation in the region, with a focus on collaboration, community input, and adapting to the changing landscape of transit needs.