Devon Thompson

The meetings covered updates on the Afton Express service, noting increased ridership and plans for potential expansion contingent on grant funding, including exploring a partnership with the University of Virginia for farecard sales. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Transit Development Plan (TDP), including the review of preliminary TDP chapters, survey results highlighting desires for Sunday service, expanded weekend service, and better accessibility. Potential TDP projects discussed included implementing a Microtransit Pilot Project, establishing a Staunton South Route, adding Saturday paratransit and Sunday service, extending operating hours, implementing technology upgrades from the ITS Plan, and rehabilitating the Staunton Lewis Street Hub. Operational updates included reports on ridership trends, COVID-19 impacts, and proposed route changes for the Staunton North and West Loops, which were subsequently approved. There was also discussion regarding the submission of FY2023 grants to the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT).

The meeting included discussion of turnkey contract services for BRITE Bus, Afton Express proposed schedule changes, and the Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (SAWMPO) Long Range Transportation Plan Update. An operations update was provided, including discussion of driver shortages and ridership. Announcements included the selection of a member for the Virginia Transit Leadership Institute and an award for Augusta Health.

The BRITE Transit Advisory Committee meetings covered various topics including updates on the FY 2021 and FY 2022 DRPT Grant applications, the Afton Express service, and the UVA Telework Survey. Discussions also included the Transit Development Plan (TDP), contractor updates on general operations, bus stop requests, and the installation of bus shelters and benches. Additional business included SMART SCALE updates, COVID vaccination distribution, and the election of the Chair and Vice Chair. The committee also discussed the purchase of the Staunton Lewis Street Hub, the Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP), and ITS Phase I implementation. Route improvement requests and changes, as well as the Thanksgiving holiday schedule for BRITE and Afton Express routes, were also reviewed.

The BRITE Transit Advisory Committee meeting included updates on the Staunton West/North Loops route modifications, the operational status of the Staunton Lewis Street Hub, and the Afton Express. A request for a fixed, signed stop at the Neighbor Bridge was discussed, with a decision made to approve the westbound side and reevaluate the eastbound side pending safety improvements. An update was provided on future funding and operations for transit services, including the upcoming procurement for a new service contract and potential fiscal challenges. A microtransit feasibility study was presented, outlining its goals, characteristics, and potential benefits for the BRITE service area.

The BRITE Transit Advisory Committee meetings covered a range of topics including the election of a new chair, updates on inter-regional transit plans and the Virginia Breeze inter-city bus service, and discussions on inclement weather procedures. The committee also discussed financial overviews and presentations, FY 2019 grant applications, and updates on website development. Further discussions included the addition of a bus stop in Bridgewater, a preliminary reveal and review of the BRITE website, and a demo driver assistance project. The committee also reviewed a proposed bylaw amendment, the implementation of BRITE punch cards, and a SMART SCALE application for intersection improvements.