Key West Transit Development Plan FY2025-2034

9.2 Long-Term Operating and Capital Improvements

Fleet Expansion As part of the ten-year TDP, KWT would need to acquire a total of 22 new vehicles, including 17 for immediate use and 5 as spares. This acquisition will double the current fleet size and introduce a diverse mix of vehicles tailored to various operational needs. Fleet diversification is a priority to improve operational efficiency. By incorporating different vehicle types, such as smaller hybrid-electric buses and vans, KWT can better meet the community’s needs. Smaller vehicles will be deployed in neighborhoods with narrow streets, while larger buses will operate on main roads and the overseas highway to accommodate higher passenger capacities. The expanded fleet will include hybrid electric vans, trolley buses, and standard buses. This selection is designed to meet the unique demands of historic districts and efficiently serve longer-distance routes, such as the Lower Keys Shuttle. The inclusion of diverse vehicle types will enable KWT to conduct in-depth assessments of operational efficiencies across both on-demand services and established routes. As technology continues to advance, KWT could initiate a feasibility study of integrating autonomous vehicles into the transit system. Similar projects have been deployed throughout the state of Florida. Such a program in Key West would involve testing autonomous vehicles on select routes to evaluate their operational efficiency, safety, and cost effectiveness. If successful, this initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of autonomous technology, further enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of KWT’s services. Over the next ten years, the capital needs plan includes an additional 22 fixed-route vehicles, including transit vans, buses, and trolley-like vehicles, to operate new or expanded services, including ADA trips. These additional vehicles are estimated to cost $7.7 million in 2024 dollars.

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Transit Development Plan FY 2025–2034