Chas Stearns

This Transit Development Plan for Community Transit, spanning 2026-2031, outlines the agency's vision to make travel easy for all by focusing on delivering excellent service and building for the future. The plan's strategic priorities include attracting and retaining customers, strengthening the employee experience, and prioritizing sustainability. It forecasts finances, details planned services, and aligns with WSDOT transportation goals of economic vitality, preservation, safety, mobility, environment, and stewardship to ensure long-term financial and operational sustainability.

This six-year Transit Development Plan serves as a roadmap for Community Transit, focusing on delivering excellent service and building for the future. The plan is structured around three strategic priorities: attracting and retaining customers, strengthening the employee experience, and prioritizing sustainability. Key initiatives include expanding the Swift BRT network, transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet by 2044, investing in facilities and technology, and ensuring financial stability. The ultimate vision is to provide safe, reliable, and accessible transportation services, fostering lifelong learning and community engagement.

The board workshop included discussion on the zero emissions program update, feasibility study, beta test with a 60-foot articulated battery electric bus, and a fleet transition plan. The primary takeaway was that the agency will replace diesel buses as they reach the end of their useful life, and the goal is to complete this transition by 2044. The key areas of focus in 2024 were pillars, deliberate planning, side-by-side pilot, and learning from engagements with other transit agencies.