Key West Transit Development Plan FY2025-2034

2.0 Baseline Conditions

2.0 Baseline Conditions The following sections summarize the existing conditions and demographic characteristics within the Key West transit service area. It also includes a review of economic conditions and tourism information. The assessment of baseline conditions establishes the context for the delivery of transit services and provides background information needed to understand the city’s transit service operating environment. Service area description demographic characteristics journey to work patterns land use information and roadway conditions are presented using the most recent data available at the time of preparation of this memorandum. 2.1 Service Area Description Key West, located in the southern portion of Monroe County, holds a distinction as the southernmost city in the continental United States. This picturesque island city is characterized by its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Key West has a land area of approximately 5.59 square miles. The study area serves as the geographic region where the transit agency’s services operate or where they plan to expand in the future. Understanding the limits and characteristics of the study area is essential for developing a successful TDP because it provides the necessary context for the transit agency to make informed decisions about the design and implementation of transit services. By examining the study area, the transit agency can identify areas with high transit demand and locations that may be underserved. This information serves as a starting point for conducting a demographic analysis.

Adjacent to Key West, Stock Island is situated immediately to the east. The section of Stock Island north of US Highway 1 is part of incorporated Key West (excluding Raccoon Key). The portion to the south of US Highway 1 is an unincorporated census-designated place (CDP) in Monroe County. Beyond Key West, the Florida Keys are divided into three distinct sections: the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys, and the Lower Keys. This division reflects the distinctive characteristics and environments of each section, influencing transportation and transit needs accordingly. To better comprehend the geographical scope and context for the TDP Major Update, a series of maps are included in Appendix A to present physical representations of the service area. These maps will offer visual representation of the boundaries of Key West, which serves as the primary study area and highlight key points of interest within the city, providing context and encompass transit hubs, popular destinations, and areas of particular importance. 2.1.1 Population Profile Utilizing data from sources such as the U.S. Census American Community Survey (ACS), Longitudinal Employment Household Dynamics (LEHD), and the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR), valuable insights can be gleaned regarding population density, commuting behaviors, and employment trends. This information is instrumental in making informed decisions about the optimal levels of transit service, routes, and infrastructure investments.

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Transit Development Plan FY 2025–2034