Michael Williams

This Comprehensive Operations Analysis outlines COAST's plan to evolve its bus system to better meet customer needs, optimize budget adherence, and enhance service for the region. The plan, developed through public input and phased implementation, aims to streamline operations, reduce travel times, improve route connections, and extend service coverage, while achieving cost efficiencies and maintaining fiscal responsibility. Key priorities include separating local and regional routes, ensuring consistent hourly frequencies, and prioritizing fixed-route service within available revenue.

This document outlines the 'Connected by COAST' campaign, a fundraising initiative to secure $7 million for the future of public transportation on the Seacoast. The campaign focuses on three key funding opportunities: capital investment for a state-of-the-art facility, strengthening the annual financial base, and establishing an endowment for long-term sustainability. The overall goal is to enhance public transportation services, connect communities, and generate economic, social, and environmental benefits for the next 40+ years.

The meeting included updates on staffing shortages, the rebranding of Route 7 On Demand to the COAST Connector, October service adjustments, and the CommuteSMART Seacoast program. Concerns were raised about the energy consumption and fire protection measures for the new facility, as well as potential funding losses due to construction delays. The board approved the Safety Plan revision 7 and the Transit Asset Management and Maintenance Plan (revision 10), including the FY26-30 Capital Spending Plan. A proposal to limit COAST Connector and General Demand Response services to adults was discussed and ultimately tabled for further review. Updates were provided on COAST's development efforts, including the Dover Father's Day road race and upcoming lunch-and-learn series.

The meeting included updates on staffing shortages, additional bus operator support, and the Route 7 On Demand Service expansion. The board discussed the confirmation of Shelley Winters as Deputy Commissioner at the NHDOT and the upcoming GACIT hearings. They considered a fare-free day during Community Transportation Month in October and elected COAST officers and the Executive Committee for FY26, excluding the Vice Chair position. The FY26 meeting calendar and operating budget were adopted. Ridership statistics for August were reviewed, and community updates were shared regarding the new service between Newmarket and Exeter and the Route 100 service cuts.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. The board approved the CY23 Strafford County Funding application and authorized the Executive Director to submit it. They also authorized the Chair to execute a board resolution for Chase Bank, identifying authorized representatives and account signers for a new account. A motion was passed to prepare a letter of support for the CommuteSMART Seacoast TMA application. The Executive Director's annual review and compensation were also approved based on the Executive Committee's recommendation. Additionally, the FY22 Impact Report and the draft FY24 Municipal Funding Formula & Requests were discussed. The board received updates on ridership and ongoing issues with the Passio transition.