ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The city wants to improve its transit services.
The city of Asheville is launching the ART Comprehensive Operational Analysis, a strategic initiative to improve transit services and align resources with community needs, according to a news release. The plan will evaluate ridership data, demographic trends and roadway conditions to develop short and long-term recommendations for Asheville Rides Transit (ART). Jarrett Walker & Associates, a nationally-recognized transit planning firm, will guide this effort, the news release said.
The ART Comprehensive Operations Analysis will help guide the future of Asheville’s public transit system, ensuring that routes and services meet the needs of residents, workers and visitors.
The analysis will:
- Identify operational strategies to improve service efficiency and reliability
- Address demographic and land use changes that influence transit demand
- Support long-term growth and accessibility improvements
- Incorporate lessons learned from Tropical Storm Helene
- Provide recommendations to strengthen transit system resilience
- Match available resources to current and future operational needs
Upcoming opportunities for public input will include:
- Rider and non-rider surveys
- Public meetings and stakeholder workshops
- Regular updates via social media, newsletters, and community partnerships
The first phase will begin in April, with on-board surveys for riders and a separate survey for non-riders to better understand barriers to transit use.
The city has launched a project webpage where community members can learn more about the assessment, stay informed on progress and provide input.