The current economic environment has had a significant impact on STA’s funding. Lower retail sales have caused sales tax revenue to significantly decline in each of the last three years. This year’s revenue is expected to be approximately 16% below the 2007 level. This financial position will require STA to implement a series of service reductions over the next few years.
However, even in these tough financial times, STA is committed to provide quality service and continue planning for a brighter future. One aspect of that planning is to investigate how we can make it easier for riders to access our service. This requires us to not only look at our routes and schedules, but also look at ways to improve passenger service in the form of system infrastructure.
One of the system infrastructure policies in Spokane Transit’s comprehensive plan specifically states, “Bicycles will be accommodated at STA’s facilities and on STA coaches.” (Connect Spokane: A Comprehensive Plan for Public Transportation; System Infrastructure Policy 3.5 Bicycle Accommodations).
This short survey is intended to garner feedback on the types of services that members of our region’s bicycling community would find most valuable. The objective is to develop a strategy that prioritizes potential initiatives that may be implemented as funding allows.