RTS Begins Updating Bus Stops and Signs

RTS customers in Monroe County will see service improvements as RTS continues its transition from an outdated public transit model and routing system to a highly efficient one that provides service when and where customers need it most. Based on results of an independent study, RTS will gradually begin to eliminate 25 percent of redundant bus stops along its routes and, at the same time, update bus signs with clear information that reflects recent route changes. The project is expected to be completed within the next 12 months.

Transit authorities across the U.S. are making bus stop placement a priority in an effort to streamline service and reduce costs—a process known as “bus stop optimization.” Research has shown that too many stops frustrate customers with frequent starts and stops, reduce on-time-performance, waste fuel and increase emissions. Optimal placement of stops is considered to be five stops per mile. Significant improvements are seen when 40 to 45 percent of stops are removed.

RTS has an excessive number of bus stops—currently more than 3,400 overall, with as many as 14 to 16 per mile on some routes. RTS’ goal is to aim for a total of seven stops per mile in urban areas and up to five stops per mile in suburban areas—higher than recommendations—while ensuring that important, key stops and destinations and transfer points remain in place. As a result, 25 percent of RTS stops will be eliminated, a total of 472 stops in the City of Rochester and 437 in suburban areas of Monroe County.

The decision to remove stops was based on a detailed study funded by the Genesee Transportation Council and conducted by Passero & Associates. Goals, scope and proposed timeline and results of the study were first presented to the public at a workshop in September 2014 where attendees were invited to ask questions and weigh-in about bus stop locations in the event that RTS had overlooked a special need or hardship.  RTS also posted the information online and on social media. To allow ample time for community feedback, the comment period was extended twice. As a result of community feedback, 29 additional stops will remain in place.

Notices were posted on stops targeted for removal the week of March 29.

New bus stop signs will make it easier than ever to ride RTS

RTS has also begun installing all new bus stop signs to provide easy-to-read information that customers want to know. Features of the new blue and green signs include:

·         Information on which routes serve each stop

·         Two-sided, reflective design that is easily visible at night for easier identification by Bus Operators and customers

·         Bus stop ID numbers so customers can check real-time bus arrival time using the RTS Where’s My Bus app or myRTS.com.

For more information, visit www.myRTS.com/Planning-and-Projects or call RTS Customer Service at (585) 288-1700.

Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority provides public bus transportation in Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Wyoming Counties. Recognized as one of the best-run transit systems in the nation, our 900+ employees proudly enjoy serving our customers who count on us for 18 million rides each year. A public benefit entity and one of four regional transportation authorities in New York State, RGRTA is governed by 13 appointed commissioners who represent the City of Rochester, County of Monroe, and the surrounding counties in which RGRTA provides services. For more information, visit www.rgrta.com.