Packages
This is STA’s plan to invest in important projects through 2035. The framework explains how we will fund these improvements and partner with the community, driving initiatives that will make Spokane’s public transit system work for all riders.
Types of Investments
There are four types of investments outlined in our framework:
- Baseline
- Core Investments
- Enhancements
- Enhancements +
Baseline
Initiatives which maintain the current levels of transit service made possible by STA Moving Forward, our previous strategic plan.
Core Investments
Key initiatives already in progress, like Division street BRT, Zero Emission Vehicle Transition Plan, and STA's Facilities Master Plan.
Enhancements
Initiatives covered by our existing funding. More information below.
Enhancements +
Initiatives requiring ongoing funding.
Enhancements in All Packages
As we finalize the package of initiatives that will form the Enhancements for the Connect 2035 plan, some scored high enough to be included in every version.
These initiatives are grouped below by how they support one of our three key goals for Connect 2035:
- Implement the fixed route network optimization (additional night/weekend service on high-performing routes, updating service in Spokane Valley, reaching new job centers)
- Pilot a safety ambassador program with trained personnel on buses and at facilities
- Implement online scheduling for paratransit trips
- Install lighting at all sheltered stops
- Install shelters at all stops with more than 25 daily boardings
- Upgrade Route 33 – Wellesley to High Performance Transit (infrastructure)
- Implement a Mobility-on-Demand pilot in North Spokane Valley
- Increase programs teaching new riders to use the bus, including partnerships with CBOs
- Establish a CBO network to support and strengthen STA's community engagement efforts focused on underrepresented communities
- Expand outreach to employers to educate about the benefit of transit and STA’s service options
- Increase educational efforts to raise awareness of service information in languages other than English and ability to request translations
- Identify locations for installation of signage (and other rider resources) in languages other than English
- Work with event organizers to integrate transit fare into event tickets
- Work with Visit Spokane, hotels, and event organizers to develop partnerships and enhance information for visitors
- Work with partners (SRTC, Avista) to expand access to public electric vehicle charging at STA facilities
- Make targeted investments in staffing to expand competencies in support of strategic internal and external initiatives.
- Upgrade our Computer-Aided Dispatch / Automatic Vehicle Location systems to enable more accurate real-time information
- Implement telematics in all STA fleet vehicles to increase safety, efficiency, and opportunities for expanded operator training
- Purchase a customer relationship management system to streamline customer interactions and improve service delivery
- Establish an organizational development program
- Enhance internal employee engagement and communications efforts to retain STA talent
- Invest in our operators by upgrading break rooms and amenities, expanding access to high-quality restrooms along routes, and developing new operator support systems
- Increase transparency by developing user-friendly, public-facing dashboards for key performance indicators and making it easier to access and use publicly available data
Additional Enhancements
We have divided possible future enhancements into three packages. Through community input, STA expects to be able to move forward with two of these packages, or even a combination of initiatives from each package.
Package A
Reduced Fares
Develop an eligibility-based reduced fare program for riders experiencing low incomes (pending Connect Spokane fare policy update)
Package B
High Performance Transit
- Upgrade Route 28 – Nevada to High Performance Transit (infrastructure)
- Conduct planning and design for future HPT corridors (Route 61 – Highway 2/Fairchild, Extend Route 90 – Sprague to the Appleway Park-n-Ride, extending Division BRT to Mead, planning for future high-capacity transit corridors)
- Fund station area TOD planning efforts in partnership with municipalities
Package C
Mobility-on-Demand
- Implement MOD pilots in Latah Valley, Liberty Lake, and unincorporated portions of the West Plains
- Launch an inclusive MOD pilot geared towards older adults and people with disabilities to test same-day scheduling for paratransit
- Pilot new user interface and in-vehicle technology to enable rideshare users to book and pay for trips on-demand
Get Involved
STA is actively encouraging public engagement in Connect 2035, recognizing the invaluable role of community input in shaping its strategic plan. To ensure inclusivity, STA has provided multiple avenues for participation, making it easy for individuals to share their perspectives and ideas. Join the conversation today and be a part of the transformative journey toward a better connected and more vibrant future.
Insight Network
STA’s Connect Insight Network comprises a diverse and engaged group of community members who play a pivotal role in providing feedback on Connect 2035.
Events
STA hosts open houses and meetings to gather insights, preferences, and suggestions regarding the strategic roadmap, which are then integrated into the decision-making process.
Get In Touch
If you have questions, suggestions, or feedback to share about Connect 2035, STA is eager to connect with you. Engagement is not only welcomed but essential to building our strategic plan.