Virginia Transit Equity Graphic

The Virginia Transit Equity and Modernization Study is aimed at identifying opportunities to advance equitable transit within the Commonwealth. There has been a renewed focus in recent years on the advancement of equity, accessibility, and technology. The study team will explore a wide variety of topics and engage heavily with the public to create a proactive plan for the equitable advancement and modernization of transit in the Commonwealth.

Executive Summary

Actions to Modernize Transit (Interactive)

What is Transit Equity?

Transit equity is the shared and just distribution of benefits and burdens when planning for transit delivery. This includes the importance of providing access to opportunities to employment, socializing with friends and family, connecting with the community, and meaningfully participating in our society.

What is Transit Modernization?

Transit modernization encompasses a variety of tasks, including creating and utilizing innovative best practices related to transit planning, operations, and user experience. This study will explore various transit concepts—including accessibility, infrastructure, electrification, and technology—and determine how to implement strategies that lead to developing a world-class transit

Study Path

Illustration of the Study Path: Data collection, Needs and Opportunity, Strategies and action, then ends with the Final Plan

What is Transit Equity and Modernization?

Click the plus signs below to explore definitions and their relation to the study.

Transit Equity

  • Shared and just distribution of benefits and burdens when planning for transit delivery
  • Planning and investing to provide access to opportunities to employment, socializing with friends and family, connecting with the community, and meaningfully participating in our society
  • Engagement and outreach across the state with daily users
  • Decisions are made in collaboration and in participation with the community

Transit Modernization

  • Creating and utilizing innovative best practices related to transit planning, operations, and user experience
  • Includes a variety of topics including accessibility, infrastructure, electrification, safety, and technology
  • Technical Working Group meetings with transit agency staff and industry thought leaders
  • Determine how to implement strategies that lead to developing a world-class transit system

Study Topics

The study covers a wide variety of topics including those listed below.

Transit Accessibility

Transit Accessibility

refers to people’s ability to reach goods, services, jobs and activities using transit.

Transit Adequacy
of Infrastructure

Transit Adequacy
of Infrastructure

refers to the general conditions of existing transit infrastructure and the needs for bringing them to an acceptable minimum standard.

Transit Safety

Transit Safety

refers to the safety of all transit passengers and employees on transit vehicles, at transit facilities and bus stops, and travel to and from transit facilities and bus stops.

Transit Electrification

Transit Electrification

refers to the conversion of rolling stock to electric propulsion technology.

System Engagement
and Governance

System Engagement
and Governance

refers to transit agency engagement with the general public with a particular emphasis on opportunities for disadvantaged populations and underserved communities.

Emerging Technologies

Emerging Technologies

refers to innovative technologies and services deployed by transit agencies. For example, real-time arrival systems and information displays.