Study Origin
The Virginia Transit Equity and Modernization Study was introduced by Delores L. McQuinn (D-VA) and passed with bipartisan support during the 2021 General Assembly Special Session. As required by the passage of HJ 542, the Department of Rail and Public Transportation is leading the two-year study process and conducting a needs assessment on topics such as transit, accessibility, technology, electrification, safety, engagement, representation, and infrastructure. The study will also have a specific focus on service and engagement opportunities for underserved and underrepresented communities.
Study Goal
The goal of the study is to create an assessment of current conditions, identify opportunities, and develop an action plan to advance the equitable delivery and modernization of transit services in Virginia.
Study Outcome
The study will include a needs assessment focusing on equitable delivery of transportation services and modernization of transit, emphasizing engagement with underserved communities in the Commonwealth.
Study Schedule
The Virginia Transit Equity and Modernization Study began in the Summer of 2021. Key deliverables throughout the study include interim reports and the final report, which will likely be completed in mid-2022.
How will we get there?
Public participation is key to the success of the study and will be completed through a multitude of platforms, including, but not limited to, focus groups with system users, a virtual public forum with experts and daily users, and website updates to keep the public informed.
The technical components of the study include identifying needs and barriers that currently exist and the creation of strategies to implement technologies and engagement of all communities. Topics include transit accessibility, adequacy of transit infrastructure, transit electrification, implementation of emerging technology, transit safety, and transit system engagement.
Technical Working Groups, comprised of both transit agency staff throughout Virginia and industry thought-leaders, will provide recommendations related to each technical area. Bringing together a group of members with diverse backgrounds will enrich conversations and bring forward feasible and implementable solutions that contribute to equity and modernization.
Key Project Elements
Public Engagement (Website, Focus Groups, Forum)
Public participation is key to the success of the study and will be completed through a multitude of platforms, including, but not limited to, focus groups with system users, a virtual public forum with experts and daily users, and website updates to keep the public informed.
Technical Assessment
The technical components of the study include identifying needs and barriers that currently exist and the creation of strategies to implement technologies and engagement of all communities. Topics include transit accessibility, adequacy of transit infrastructure, transit electrification, implementation of emerging technology, transit safety, and transit system engagement.
Technical Work Groups
Technical Working Groups, comprised of both transit agency staff throughout Virginia and industry thought-leaders, will provide recommendations related to each technical area. Bringing together a group of members with diverse backgrounds will enrich conversations and bring forward feasible and implementable solutions that contribute to equity and modernization.
Transit Equity and Modernization Committee
The Committee will include transit agency executives and staff representing various Virginia transit agencies to provide experience and advise throughout the life of the project.
