$2 Million in Service Added to MTS Bus System
In September 2017, the MTS Board unanimously approved changes to our bus network. The changes will invest an additional $2 million in operations and will add to the number of high-frequency service routes (15 minutes or better), as well as streamline some routes to shorten travel time.
These changes reflect what many of you asked for! Rider responses throughout TOP showed two main priorities: increased frequency and reduced travel time. Proposals were made for adjustments to over 60% of MTS’ bus services, a result of nearly 6,000 surveys and more than 50 outreach events across the region, as well as system performance data and ridership patterns.
Riders can expect initial TOP changes to begin in January, and continue throughout 2018. To see a list of the upcoming changes, visit the TOP project page.
UTC Transit Center Opens
The latest investment in our regional transit system, the state-of-the-art UTC Transit Center, opened for service October 27. Eleven MTS bus routes and one NCTD bus route will now utilize the 80,000 square foot center. The transit center is part of a $500 million Westfield UTC mall renovation, and will connect to the Mid-Coast Trolley extension platform via a sky bridge when completed in 2021. The new center will feature digital pylons, bike lockers, ticket vending machines and more.
Sycuan is Going Green
In October, MTS announced a new naming rights agreement for the Trolley’s Green Line. The line will now be the Sycuan Green Line, after Sycuan Casino, which has been a community landmark in San Diego for more than three decades. The naming rights agreement provides MTS with a sustainable revenue stream – $25.5 million in non-fare revenue over 30 years. In addition to the naming rights changes, riders will now be able to catch shuttle buses to Sycuan’s casino and resort amenities from four MTS transit centers: Santee, El Cajon, Grantville, and 12th & Imperial.
Courthouse Trolley Station Coming Soon
A new station will soon be added to the MTS Orange Line in downtown San Diego. Work on the soon-to-be Courthouse Station is expected to wrap up in early 2018. The Courthouse Station, located on the south side of C Street between State and Union, will serve as the new terminus for the Orange Line. MTS will close the tracks for one weekend in December between City College and America Plaza to complete the project. Riders are encouraged to use existing bus service along Broadway. Additionally, the Orange Line will also be extended to Arnele Station on the eastern end. To learn more about the project, and to stay up-to-date about upcoming track closures, visit sdmts.com/courthouse.
