DEPARTMENT:
DEPARTMENT HEAD:
COUNCIL DISTRICT IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT: ConnectSA
SUMMARY:
Briefing by ConnectSA and VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority on the ConnectSA comprehensive transportation plan
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On April 10, 2018, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff announced the creation of ConnectSA, a nonprofit group established to build public awareness and support for a modern mass transit and transportation system in the San Antonio region. At the direction of the Mayor and Judge, a draft framework was to be prepared as the starting point for robust community input and should include short-term, mid-term, and long-term transportation strategies and initiatives as well as funding options. The framework document was released by ConnectSA in December 2018 and Tri-Chair Member Henry Cisneros provided a briefing to City Council "B" Session in February 2019.
The ConnectSA framework builds upon recent transportation planning initiatives such as the City's SA Tomorrow Multimodal Transportation Plan and VIA Metropolitan Transit's (VIA) Vision 2040 Plan, as well as long range plans from the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The framework presents a clear set of recommended goals and funding strategies. While significant infrastructure improvements are at the core of the framework, ConnectSA is also forward thinking and realizes using innovative technology is a key component of the transportation future. The focus of ConnectSA is clear; focus on moving people in a safe and efficient manner, whether by personal vehicle, public transit, walking, or biking. A modern mass transit system is essential and ConnectSA proposes the implementation of an Advanced Rapid Transit network, using high capacity buses along dedicated transit corridors.
ISSUE:
Over the last six months, ConnectSA has attended 75 community meetings and outreach event...
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