As mentioned earlier this month, WMATA has launched a study of the Rhode Island Avenue and Baltimore Avenue bus lines. Yesterday, we received this update from WMATA representative Douglas Stallworth:
“Since we had our project kick-off meeting with other Metro staff and representatives from DDOT, Maryland DOT, Prince George’s County Department of Transportation & Public Works and Maryland National Capital Park and Planning yesterday, I thought you would like a status update on the project. We discussed the following:
- Scope of the project including an analysis of the following which will lead to improvement recommendations:
- Assessment of current transit service in the corridor on Routes G8, 81, 82, 83, 84, 86 and T18
- Traffic operations assessment
- Condition of bus stops and shelters
- Condition of the bus fleet
- Availability of transit information
- Bus fare payment characteristics and issues
- Safety and security concerns
- Tentative date of on or about July 10 for a rider survey on the above routes
- Focus group meeting would be held in late July at a location to be determined
- First series of public meetings would be held in late August at locations to be determined after schools reopen in the District and Prince George’s County to avoid rider vacations”
The rider survey, scheduled for July 10, will included a blitz of survey forms available on all of the bus lines listed. Additionally, WMATA has set up a website for this project, where the survey will also be available electronically and you can track the progress of the study, including dates and locations of public meetings.
It is critical to have your voice be heard in improving the bus line access along our corridor. Be sure to take part in the survey and public meetings – we’ll help keep you updated with information about this project as it becomes available.
