Local advocacy group RVA Rapid Transit has released its 2023 State of Transit Report. The document breaks down the current numbers around public transit in the Richmond Region, compares the River City to other similar municipalities, and suggests a number of improvements.
We’re breaking down the report and how you can get involved in public transit in Richmond.
History
The report includes a page on Richmond’s historic interest in public transit. The River City was actually home to the world’s first electric streetcar system. It opened in 1888 and inspired almost 900 similar systems around the country — but was destroyed in 1949. Check out this map of old streetcar routes with current GRTC routes for comparison.
Statistics
RVA Rapid Transit highlighted several numbers to paint a picture of Richmond public transit.
- 63 | The number of bus operators GRTC will have to hire to restore and expand service. The benchmark to restore service is 21 new hires. Check out employment opportunities — GRTC offers a starting wage of $24.91/hour.
- 26% | The percentage of bus stops that have a bench or shelter. A GRTC plan hopes to improve this to 50-75% by 2027.
- $0 | The current fare for GRTC buses. Advocates want permanent funding to keep the service fare-free, arguing that it increases efficiency and ridership.
- $44 | How much Greater Richmond spent on transit per capita. The report compares that number to other metros, including Oklahoma City ($23), Raleigh-Durham ($65), Milwaukee ($101), and Salt Lake City ($268).
Get involved
Groups, businesses, and individuals can Adopt a Bus Stop to take care of an individual stop. Riders can also fill out an online survey to share their thoughts on Richmond’s transit system.
Maybe the simplest way to support public transit is the group’s first recommendation — just ride the bus.