Monroe County Transit: Existing Conditions Analysis

MONROE COUNTY TRANSIT

Improving Mobility Enhancing Opportunities & Connecting Communities

Existing Conditions Analysis

Contents Table of

EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents...........................................................................................................02 Table of Contents........................................................................................................04 List of Figures.............................................................................................................08 List of Tables...............................................................................................................10 Executive Summary.......................................................................................................12 Executive Summary.....................................................................................................14 Goals & Objectives.................................................................................................16 Existing Conditions................................................................................................18 Other Service........................................................................................................22 Current & Past Plans.............................................................................................24 Gap Identification..................................................................................................28 Scenario Planning & Costs....................................................................................30 Key Findings & Recommendations.......................................................................32 Funding Options for Infrstructure & Programming Initiatives...................................34 Introduction.............................................................................................................36 Introduction...........................................................................................................39 1.Goals & Objectives......................................................................................................40 Goals & Objectives.....................................................................................................43 2.Existing Conditions.....................................................................................................48 Existing Conditions................................................................................................50 2.1 Market Analysis.....................................................................................................52 2.2 Activity Density and Transit Propensity..................................................................53 2.3 Census Analysis....................................................................................................53 2.4 Origin & Destination Surveys.................................................................................94 2.4.1 Customer Profiles.........................................................................................94 2.4.2 Purpose.......................................................................................................94 2.4.3 Survey Context............................................................................................97 2.4.4 Summarized Data........................................................................................97 2.5 Field Observations...............................................................................................98 2.5.1 Infrastructure................................................................................................98 2.5.2 Signage........................................................................................................99 2.5.3 Safety and Security....................................................................................100 2.6 Zoning and Land Use.....................................................................................101 2.7 Housing.............................................................................................................101 2.8 Existing Services...............................................................................................108 2.8.1 Monroe County.........................................................................................109 2.8.2 Miami Dade County..................................................................................109 2.8.3 City of Key West Transit..........................................................................114 Table of Contents

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2.8.3 Islamorada, Village of Islands...........................................................121 2.9 Commute with Enterprise..............................................................................122 3.Other Services..........................................................................................................124 Other Services..........................................................................................................127 4.Current & Past Plans................................................................................................128 Current & Past Plans............................................................................................130 4.1 Local Plans.........................................................................................................134 4.1.1 City of Key West Mobility Study...................................................................134 4.1.2 City of Key West Transit Development Plan Major Update 2020-2029...................................................................................................135 4.1.3 City of Key West Strategic Plan – Key West Forward 2021-2024................136 4.1.4MonroeCountyTransportationDisadvantagedServicePlan(TDSP)..................137 4.1.5 City of Key West Comprehensive Plan : Major Update 2013.......................137 4.1.6 City of Key West Comprehensive Plan : Major Update 2013.......................................................................................................138 4.1.7 Monroe County Comprehensive Plan..........................................................138 4.1.8 City of Key West Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.................................139 4.1.9 Islamorada Technical Memorandum – Feasibility Investigation for Bus Stops Shelter Installation.....................................................139 4.2 Regional Plans...................................................................................................140 4.2.1 2023 Draft U.S. 1 Arterial Travel Time and Delay Study................................140 4.2.2 Monroe County US 1 Transportation Master Plan: Completed November 2021................................................................................141 4.2.3 Miami-Dade Transit Development Plan (TDP)...............................................142 4.2.4 Miami-Dade 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP).........................142 4.3 State & Federal Plans........................................................................................143 4.3.1 Florida Transportation Plan: Horizon 2060...................................................143 4.3.2 State of Florida Transportation Disadvantaged Five-Year/Twenty-Year Plan.................................................................................143 4.3.3 Implications to Public Transportation of Emerging Technologies..................144 5.Gap Identification.....................................................................................................146 5.1 Identification of Gaps & Performance Review.....................................................149 5.2 Evaluation of Fixed Route Service......................................................................149 5.3 Microtransit Service............................................................................................149 5.4 Roadway Capacity.............................................................................................150 6.Scenario Planning & Costs........................................................................................152 Scenario Planning & Costs..........................................................................................154 6.1 Operating Costs...................................................................................................156 6.2 Capital Costs........................................................................................................158 6.3 Route Expansion & Schedule Optimization.........................................................159

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6.4 Capital Costs........................................................................................................176 6.5 Microtransit.........................................................................................................177 7.Key Findings & Recommendations............................................................................180 Key Findings & Recommendations...........................................................................182 7.1 Short Term (1-5 Years).....................................................................................184 7.2 Long Term (5-10 Years)....................................................................................188 8.Funding Options........................................................................................................192 Funding Options..................................................................................................194 8.1 Federal Funding................................................................................................198 8.1.1 Urbanized Area Formula Program.............................................................198 8.1.2 Bus and Bus Related Facilities Program...................................................199 8.1.3 Major Capital Investment Grants Over $75 Million...................................199 8.1.4. Major Capital Investment Grants Under $75 Million (SSP)...........................200 8.1.5 Formula Grants for Special Needs for Elderly Individuals and Individuals with Disabilities Program..............................................................200 8.1.6 Formula Grant for Other than Urbanized Areas......................................201 8.1.7 Small Transit Intensive Cities......................................................................201 8.1.8 Growing States and High Density States Program........................................202 8.1.9 Flexible Funding Programs........................................................................202 8.2 State Funding....................................................................................................204 8.2.1 Commuter Assistance Program...................................................................204 8.2.2 County Incentive Grant Program (CIGP)....................................................205 8.2.3 Intermodal Development Program.............................................................205 8.2.4 New Starts Transit Program (NSTP)..........................................................206 8.2.5 Park and Ride Lot Program.....................................................................207 8.2.6 Public Transit Block Grant Program..........................................................207 8.2.7 Public Transit Service Development Program...........................................208 8.2.8 Transit Corridor Program.............................................................................209 8.2.9 Transportation Regional Incentive Program (TRIP)......................................210 8.3 Other Options....................................................................................................212 8.3.1 Local Match Resources/Options..................................................................211 8.3.2 Transportation Alternatives..........................................................................212 8.3.3 Highway Safety Funds.................................................................................213 8.3.4 Scenic Highways........................................................................................213 8.3.5 Florida Highway Beautification Council Grant Program.................................213 8.3.6 Florida Communities Trust Land Acquisition Grants......................................213 8.3.7 Florida Recreation and Development Assistance Grant Program...................214 8.3.8 Greenways and Rails-to-Trails Program........................................................214 8.3.9 Local Capital Improvement Programs..........................................................215 8.3.10 Additional Opportunities...........................................................................215

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8.3.11 Rural Areas...............................................................................................215 8.3.12 Flexible Funding for Transit and Highway Improvements............................216 Appendix I....................................................................................................................218 Appendix I.A Monroe County................................................................................222 Appendix I.B Key Largo........................................................................................260 Appendix I.C Duck Key.........................................................................................298 Appendix I.D Key West.........................................................................................336 Appendix I.E KWT Service Area............................................................................374 Appendix II Public Outreach.......................................................................................412 Appendix III Analysis Memo.........................................................................................440 Appendix IV Trips Contract Options.............................................................................444 Appendix V Strategy Monitoring.................................................................................460

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1. Figure 2.1: Key West Transit........................................................................................52 2. Figure 2.2: Monroe County Poverty Percentage .........................................................54 3. Figure 2.3: Monroe County Zero Car Household Percentages.....................................56 4. Figure 2.4: Monroe County Senior Percentages..........................................................58 5. Figure 2.5: Monroe County Disability percentages.......................................................60 6. Figure 2.6: Monroe County Rent Burdened Households..............................................62 7. Figure 2.7: Key West Transit Service Area Poverty Percentages..................................64 8. Figure 2.8: Key West Transit Service Area Zero Car Household Percentages..............66 9. Figure 2.9: Key West Transit Service Area Senior Percentages....................................68 10. Figure 2.10: Key West Transit Service Area Disability Percentages..............................70 11. Figure 2.11: Key West Transit Service Area Rent Burdened Households.....................72 12. Figure 2.12: Key Largo Poverty Percentages...............................................................74 13. Figure 2.13: Key Largo Zero Car Household Percentages...........................................76 14. Figure 2.14: Key Largo Senior Percentages.................................................................78 15. Figure 2.15: Key Largo Disability Percentages.............................................................80 16. Figure 2.16: Key Largo Rent Burdened Households....................................................82 17. Figure 2.17: Marathon/Duck Key Poverty Percentages................................................84 18. Figure 2.18: Marathon/Duck Key Zero Car Household Percentages............................86 19. Figure 2.19: Marathon/Duck Key Senior Percentages.................................................88 20. Figure 2.20: Marathon/Duck Key Disability Percentages..............................................90 21. Figure 2.21: Marathon/Duck Key Rent Burdened Households.....................................92 22. Figure 2.22: Origin-Destination Survey Cover Page.....................................................95 23. Figure 2.23: Existing Bus Shelter in Key West.............................................................98 24. Figure 2.24: Existing Bus Shelter in Key West.............................................................99 25. Figure 2.25: Existing Bus Shelter in Marathon.............................................................99 26. Figure 2.26: Existing Bus Stop in Florida City............................................................100 27. Figure 2.27: Bus Stop Transfer..................................................................................100 28. Figure 2.28: Miami-Dade Transit Route 301 Bus.......................................................100 29. Figure 2.29: City of Key West Zoning Map................................................................102 30. Figure 2.30: Key Attractions.......................................................................................106 31. Figure 2.31: Miami-Dade Transit Route 301..............................................................108 32. Figure 2.32: Miami-Dade Transit Route 301Service Map...........................................110 33. Figure 2.33: Miami-Dade Transit Route 302 Service Map..........................................112 34. Figure 2.34: Key west Transit Bus.............................................................................116 35. Figure 2.35: Key west Transit Bus.............................................................................117 36. Figure 2.36: Key west Transit Bus.............................................................................117 37. Figure 2.37: Key West Transit Lower Keys Shuttle Map............................................117 38. Figure 2.38: Key West Transit Lower Keys Shuttle Schedule.....................................118 List of Figures

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39. Figure 2.39 Key West Transit Duval loop Bus............................................................118 40. Figure 2.40: Key West Transit Duval Loop Map & Schedule.......................................119 41. Figure 2.41 Key West Transit On-Demand Service....................................................120 42. Figure 2.42 Freebee Service......................................................................................121 43. Figure 4.1: Key West Mobility Study..........................................................................134 44. Figure 4.2: Key West Transit Development Plan........................................................135 45. Figure 4.3: Key West Strategic Plan..........................................................................136 46. Figure 4.4: Key West Comprehensive Plan...............................................................138 47. Figure 4.6: MDT Transit Development Plan...............................................................140 48. Figure 4.7: Monroe County US1 Study......................................................................141 49. Figure 4.8: MDT TDP Annual Progress Report..........................................................142 50. Figure 4.9: Miami-Dade 2045 LRTP..........................................................................142 51. Figure 4.10: 2060 FTP..............................................................................................143 52. Figure 4.11: Center for Urban Transportation Research............................................144 53. Figure 4.12: State of Florida Transportation Development Plan.................................144 54. Figure 8.1: Brightline Miami Terminus........................................................................198 55. Figure 8.2:Transit-Oriented Community Along Miami-Dade Metrorail.........................200 56. Figure 8.3:Tampa Historic District..............................................................................202 57. Figure 8.4:Transit Riders in Government Center, Miami..............................................204 58. Figure 8.5:New Starts Transit Program......................................................................206 59. Figure 8.6:South Dade TransitWay.............................................................................209 60. Figure 8.7:Parkway with Multimodal Facilities........................................................... 210 61. Figure8.8: Pedestrian Promonade.............................................................................212 62. Figure 8.9:Multimodal Facility................................................................................... 213 63. Figure 8.10:Jewfish Creek Bridge..............................................................................214

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1. Table 2.1 - Key West Transit Trend Analysis..................................................................114 2. Table 6.1 - Hours & Cost Scenario 1.............................................................................160 3. Table 6.2 - Hours & Cost Scenario 1(Continuation)........................................................162 4. Table 6.3 - Scenario 1 Schedule ...................................................................................164 5. Table 6.4 - Scenario 1 Schedule (Continuation).............................................................166 6. Table 6.5 - Hours & Cost Scenario 2.............................................................................168 7. Table 6.6 - Hours & Cost Scenario 2 (Continuation)........................................................170 8. Table 6.7 - Scenario 2 Schedule.................................................................................172 9. Table 6.8 - Scenario 2 Schedule (Continuation)............................................................174 List of Tables

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Summary Executive

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Executive Summary

The planning process incorporated innovative strategies for public engagement through stakeholder participation. A virtual reality vignette depicting a glimpse of envisioned services was presented to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners at a public meeting. In-person onboard surveys were administered to capture insights into existing services and community needs.

The Monroe County Transit Existing Conditions Analysis represents the culmination of a ten-month effort to evaluate the current transit network, aiming to address growing congestion, limited transit service, and unsafe infrastructure. As the county emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the analysis emphasizes the need for a resilient, flexible, and inclusive transit system. The assessment identifies key issues, gathers stakeholder input, and proposes high-level recommendations for short-term (1-5 years) and long-term (5-10 years) implementation. The evaluation process incorporated agencies’ capital, operating expenses, and operational performance and needs. The Existing Conditions Analysis developed a set of findings and recommendations to support Monroe County in achieving the goals outlined in the agency’s Transportation Master Plan, which identifies future expansion of transit services. WSP performed this analysis based on a series of data collection and evaluation efforts with participation from the Monroe County Transit Executive Director, Miami Dade Transit, and Key West Transit staff to determine critical factors for the potential integration and expansion of transit services.

Click or Copy & Paste this URL: https://vimeo.com/925186727/633ed42782

A summary of the significant findings in each of the plan components follows. The report is divided into eight major sections, addressing:

1. Goals and Objectives 2. Existing Conditions • Transit Market • Existing Services

• Service Performance • Origin and Destination Surveys

3. Other Services 4. Current and Past Plans 5. Gap Identification 6. Scenario Planning and Costs

7. Key Findings and Recommendations 8. Funding Options and Programming Initiatives

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 Establishment of Public Transportation System

Goals & Objectives Goals and objectives were established to guide the development of a transit system that offers increased service quality, financial efficiency, and widespread awareness. Key focus areas include developing innovative services, improving accessibility, enhancing branding and education efforts, and fostering regional and local support for transit initiatives.

2 Accessibility and Inclusivity

3 Affordability and Financial Accessibility

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Key Largo

4 Community Engagement and Input

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Promotion and Marketing

8 Performance Monitoring and Improvement

5 Environmental Sustainability

6 Safety and Security

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 Population Dynamics and Socioeconomic Challenges The Market Analysis reveals a 12.2% population increase in Monroe County from 2010 to 2021. The county has many affluent neighborhoods and high-income residents, but faces socioeconomic challenges including poverty, limited car access, and housing affordability, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities.

Existing Conditions Key Findings

The Existing Conditions section provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of transit and transit connections in Monroe County, encompassing a Market Analysis, Existing Transit Services Evaluation, and Service Gap Analysis.

EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

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Islamaroda

Diversity in Transit Services

3 Customer Profiles and Origin & Destination Surveys Origin & Destination Surveys focus on Routes 301, 302, Lower Keys Shuttle, Workforce Express, and Key West Rides. About 80% of surveyed riders are commuting to or from work or home. The survey indicated that most riders are transit-dependent (lack driver’s licenses or a vehicle), pay fares in cash and would like better signage and more comfortable stops.

2

Detailed descriptions of existing transit services are provided, including Monroe County Transit, Miami-Dade Transit, City of Key West Transit, Islamorada Village of Islands and Middle Keys Transportation. Services range from fixed-route bus to on demand, and have various coverage areas, fare structures and operating models.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Infrastructure and Safety Observations

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5 Field Observations highlight critical deficiencies such as infrastructure, signage, safety, and security. Recommendations include improvements to bus stop facilities, enhanced signage for improved rider navigation, and considerations for vehicle selection to enhance safety and comfort. Information on ridership, expenses, fares, assets, and operational costs was evaluated based on available data. Key metrics, such as cost per revenue hour and mile, and cost per passenger trip, were examined for each service. The analysis aimed to include a peer review, comparing operations to Florida and national counterparts, focusing on fixed route on-time performance across routes, times of day, and days of the week. Unfortunately, comprehensive datasets were not available for most of the services, except for Key West Transit, which underwent service changes in 2022/23. The Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged 2022 Annual Operating Report provided insight into the demand response services offered by the Monroe County Community Transportation Coordinator, Guidance/ Care Center. Also serving the TD population is the county’s Veterans Affairs Department. Ridership and Productivity

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Greyhound/ Flixbus

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Other Services Key Findings

Operates 7 days/week with 12 daily round trips between Miami and Key West. One way running time varies, and fares start at $24.99 with additional fees for optional services. Payments accepted via credit/ debit card or cash through participating retailers.

Aside from the core fixed route services operated by KWT and MDT,other transportation services are provided by public and private entities including the following:

Islamorada, Village of Islands

1

2 Islamorada has partnered with Freebee a privately-operated transportation provider, to offer on-demand transit services. Notably, ridership has experienced a substantial 50% year-over-year increase, indicating a growing demand for the service. The expectation is that this trend will persist and further escalate following an expansion scheduled for July. Middle Keys Transportation, Demand Response Services for Elderly, Disabled Operated by the Guidance/Care Center, Middle Keys Transportation serves as the Community Transportation Coordinator for Monroe County. The organization, a 501(c) (3) non-profit, has been providing Special Transportation Services (STS) for over 20 years. To qualify, riders must meet eligibility requirements. Reservations can be made during specified hours with advance notice for in-county and out-of-county trips

Layton

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Coordination with Miami-Dade Transit, attention to disadvantaged populations, and forward-looking strategies position Monroe County for a resilient and efficient transit system that reflects the region’s unique challenges and priorities. This section is divided into three sections: Local Plans, Regional Plans, and State & Federal Plans, showcasing a broad spectrum of initiatives.

Current & Past Plans Key Findings The analysis of Current & Past Plans demonstrates a cohesive approach to transit planning in Monroe County, encompassing local, regional, and state levels. The emphasis on sustainability, equity, and multimodal accessibility aligns with the community’s evolving needs.

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Marathon

Multimodal & Sustainable Focus

Community-Centric Priorities

1

2

Local plans consistently emphasize multimodal access, promoting facilities for transit, bicycles, and pedestrians. Transit-oriented development, equity initiatives, and sustainable practices feature prominently in plans to ensure inclusive and environmentally conscious transportation solutions.

The City of Key West’s Mobility Study focuses on enhancing mobility, safety, and connectivity, incorporating alternative approaches and mobility options. Key West Transit’s Transit Development Plan (TDP) updates outline actionable steps, addressing funding, operational support, and ongoing progress beyond adoption to maintain public support.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Strategic Vision & Priorities

Miami-Dade Transit Integration

3

6

Key West’s Strategic Plan (Key West Forward 2021-2024) aligns community priorities, emphasizing affordable housing, sea-level rise mitigation, road improvements, environmental protection, cleanliness, and pedestrian-friendly measures, including an on-demand transit system.

Miami-Dade’s Transit Development Plan (TDP) and Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) aim at expanding regional services, promoting connectivity, and addressing growing population needs.

Transportation Disadvantaged Service Enhancement

State & Federal Priorities

4

7

The State of Florida Transportation Disadvantaged Plan and considerations of emerging technologies highlight a commitment to cost-effective, efficient, and cohesive transportation services.

The Monroe County Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP) highlights efforts to enhance transit services for disadvantaged populations, emphasizing awareness, additional funding, and improved referral systems.

Coordinated Regional Approach

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The U.S. 1 Arterial Travel Time and Delay Study identifies traffic challenges, underscoring the need for mitigation and improvement projects to keep traffic congestion within acceptable Level of Service standards. The Monroe County US 1 Transportation Master Plan addresses intermodal transportation, climate change impacts, and mass transit, providing a coordinated approach with municipalities and stakeholders.

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Marathon

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Key West

The Lower Keys Shuttle operates from Key West to Marathon, extending approximately 50 miles beyond the central Key West service area. Miami-Dade’s Route 301 express service runs from Marathon to Key West, necessitating a transfer to the Lower Keys Shuttle for the final leg of the journey to Key West.

Gap Identification Key Findings

Notable absences of direct public transit between Florida City and Key West and first/last mile services have been identified.

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Coordination and Customer Experience Generally, there is effective coordination in connection schedules between the two agencies to ensure comprehensive coverage. Despite this, riders may encounter wait times for connections, impacting the overall customer experience.

Instances of connection unavailability exist, attributed to constraints in service schedules, revealing potential gaps in service reliability.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Key West

The implementation of scenarios is expected to take several years, with each service contributing tangible benefits to the transit network, reducing automobile mode share, and positioning Monroe County as a model for expanding mobility options.

Scenario Planning & Costs Key Findings In planning new services, WSP conducted a layered analysis considering OnDemand service to augment fixed routes. Service scenarios were developed with service schedules, performance metrics, and considerations for potential constraints like vehicle availability.

Operating Fixed Route/ADA

Service scenarios for a commuter bus system were designed to enhance the fixed route and express services and would include complementary paratransit services as required.

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The scenarios would contribute to creating a more efficient and accessible transportation system for Monroe County residents and visitors. Scenarios 1 and 2 outline fleet sizes, spare ratios, and estimated annual operating expenses. Microtransit Currently, two microtransit services operate in Monroe County (FreeBee in Islamorada and Key West Rides in Key West). Five potential service areas for micro transit expansion were identified.

Two scenarios (Scenarios 1 and 2) for each of the five service areas detail operational specifics and provide insights into hourly rates, annual vehicle costs, and the distribution of vehicles across service areas. Capital Capital investments will involve the initial vehicle procurement, technology and equipment, safety and security enhancements, accessibility features and potential land acquisition or land leases for mobility hubs.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Key Findings & Recomemndations

Key Findings A set of suggestions were developed for Monroe County for consideration as next steps. WSP identified several short (1-5 years) and long-term strategies (5 10 years) to address gaps identified and insights from the scenario planning. These recommendations reinforce the County’s commitment to an efficient, cost-effective, and responsive transit system. Balancing Costs and Revenue Emphasize cost-revenue balance using fare collection, local funding, and grants. Effective service cost management is crucial for affordable and reliable transit. Technology and Sustainability Take advantage of tech advancements to enhance cost-efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Efficiently manage capital costs for financial stability and project success. Public Transportation’s Impact Recognize that public transportation has an important role in promoting social equity and sustainability in Monroe County and addressing the County’s affordable housing, job access and emergency evacuation challenges.

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Recommendations

Short-Term (1-5 years)

Long-Term (5-10 years)

1. Transit Authority Action Plan and Transit Development Plan

1. Mobility as a Service (MaaS)

2. Transit Asset Management Plan

2. Service and Mobility Hub Infrastructure Investment

3. Data Analytics for

3. Partnership Expansion with Ride-Sharing Services 4. Continue Coordination with Key West & Miami-Dade Transit 5. Technology Integration and Public Awareness Campaign

Comprehensive Transit Planning.

4. Integrated Fare System

5. Real-Time Tracking and

Communication for County Transit

These recommendations aim to address immediate challenges and set the stage for a more efficient and sustainable transit system in Monroe County, with adaptability to evolving community needs.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Funding Options for Infrastructure and Programming Initiatives Key Findings This final section serves as a guide for identifying and pursuing a mix of funding options to support infrastructure and programming initiatives, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaboration to maximize the utilization of available resources.

Key funding sources include federal and state avenues, scenic highway programs, land acquisition grants, and programs addressing safety, recreation, and greenways. Notable programs include the Transportation Alternatives Set-aside, Highway Safety Funds, Scenic Highways programs, Florida Highway Beautification Council Grant Program, and more.

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The highlighted sources cover federal and state funding, specific programs for active transportation projects, and capital improvement programs at both the city and county levels. Additionally, opportunities for grants administered through the EDA and specialized programs like FTA Formula Funds, TRIP Funds, and the FTA Passenger Ferry Grant Program are emphasized.

Monroe County is encouraged to explore opportunities such as the federal PROTECT, RAISE, and INFRA grant programs, among others, to diversify funding sources. Collaboration with federal agencies like MARAD and FTA, including the Passenger Ferry Grant Program, presents additional possibilities. The comprehensive range of funding options necessitates strategic planning and collaboration to effectively access these resources.

Introduction

EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

“ The purpose of this analysis is to assess the existing conditions of transit services in Monroe County, evaluate travel demand and incorporate emerging mobility options to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance the travel experience. ”

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Introduction The Monroe County Transit Existing Conditions Analysis is a comprehensive, forward-looking assessment of the transit network that results in a series of recommended changes to transit operations to meet current and future needs. Monroe County wants a transit network that serves its residents, workforce, and visitors better than the existing offerings. Previous studies, public opinion surveys, and performance tracking of the county’s transportation network identify growing traffic congestion, limited and fragmented transit service, and unsafe infrastructure conditions that discourage alternatives to driving. Without significant improvements to transit services and infrastructure to support alternatives to driving. These things also will happen with significant improvements to transit services and infrastructure, unfortunately further reducing available parking, and increasing the number of safety incidents. The COVID-19 global pandemic has shifted how transportation agencies are approaching the various aspects of mobility. Emerging into a post pandemic economy, Monroe County is evaluating its functional role in the communities they serve, their residents, workers, and visitors—with a particular emphasis on how people move within and between communities. Moving forward, to be resilient, the county must expand mobility offerings to provide for additional options, focusing on solutions that improve safety, reliability, flexibility and ease of use for all members regardless of where they live, how they commute or their socioeconomic position.

The purpose of this analysis is to assess existing conditions of transit services in Monroe County, evaluate transit demand and incorporate emerging mobility options to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance travel experience. The census data indicators of transit need, the design and performance of existing transit services, and the condition and location of bus stops were analyzed to identify potential unmet transit needs for improvement. In addition, stakeholder input was gathered through agency meetings with transit providers, rider surveys and municipal input on transportation issues and improvement opportunities. Based on the data analysis and input received from public transit riders and stakeholders, goals and objectives were developed, and scenario planning was conducted. Recommendations were then developed to address these needs and goals. The potential solutions identified in this analysis must be evaluated further to consider factors such as funding feasibility, public acceptance, potential impacts, and effectiveness prior to implementation. The potential solutions are categorized into short-term solutions for implementation during the next 1 to 5 years, and long-term solutions for implementation during the next 5 to 10 years. Also, potential funding sources were reviewed and identified.

& Objectives

Goals

1

EXISTING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS

“By setting these goals and objectives, Monroe County can lay the foundation for a successful and sustainable public

transportation system that meets the needs of its residents while promoting accessibility, affordability, & community engagement.”

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1.1 Goals & Objectives Identifying goals and objectives for a transit agency establishes a framework within the agency to pursue its vision over time. Provide policy direction towards achieving the community’s vision. The goals and objectives listed on the next two pages are specific are consistent with community transportation priorities and will guide the County towards developing specific and realizable short- to medium term improvements. The goals and objectives were inspired by input from county officials and community stakeholders and by a review of local, State, and Federal plans to understand the initiatives of other government policies and planning efforts. planning and policy environment were reviewed, including socioeconomic trends, travel behavior/ patterns, land use, community feedback, organizational issues, technology, and funding. By setting these goals and objectives, Monroe County is laying the foundation for a successful and sustainable public transportation system that meets the needs of its residents while promoting accessibility, affordability, and community engagement. By setting these goals and objectives, Monroe County can lay the foundation for a successful and sustainable public transportation system that meets the needs of its residents while promoting accessibility, affordability, and community engagement. The county’s

Establishment of Public Transportation System

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Affordability and Financial Accessibility

Community Engagement and Input

Environmental Sustainability

Safety and Security

Promotion and Marketing

Performance Monitoring and Improvement

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Goals & Objectives

Accessibility & Inclusivity

Goal: Launch a reliable and efficient public transportation system in Monroe County. Establishment of Public Transportation System Development Plan with neighboring transit agencies and providers to determine service priorities and feasible funding agreements infrastructure, including buses and transit hubs. • Acquire the necessary • Develop a comprehensive transit schedule to cater to Objectives: • Establish a Transit

Goal: Ensure that public transportation services are accessible to all residents, including those with disabilities. Objectives: • Implement ADA-compliant features in transit vehicles and facilities. • Develop paratransit services to assist individuals with mobility challenges. • Conduct outreach programs to raise awareness of accessible transportation options.

the diverse needs of the community.

2

1

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Goal: Provide affordable public transportation options for residents of all income levels. Affordability and Financial Accessibility

Goal: Involve the community in the planning and decision making process for public transportation services. Objectives: • Organize public forums and surveys to gather input on transit needs and preferences. • Establish a community advisory committee to provide ongoing feedback. communication strategy to keep residents informed about transit developments. Community Engagement and Input • Create a transparent

Objectives: • Establish fare structures

that consider the economic diversity of the community.

• Explore partnerships with local businesses or organizations to sponsor reduced-fare programs. • Implement subsidies or discounts for low-income individuals and seniors.

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4

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Goals & Objectives

Environmental Sustainability

Goal: Ensure the safety and security of passengers and transit staff. Objectives: • Implement comprehensive safety training programs for transit personnel. • Install modern surveillance systems in transit vehicles and at transit stops. • Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to enhance security measures. Safety and Security

Goal: Integrate eco-friendly practices into the public transportation system. Objectives: • Explore the use of hybrid vehicles for the transit fleet. • Implement recycling programs at transit hubs and facilities. • Collaborate with

environmental organizations to promote sustainable transit practices.

5

6

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Performance Monitoring and Improvement

Promotion and Marketing

Goal: Increase awareness and encourage ridership through effective marketing strategies. Objectives: • Develop a cohesive branding strategy for the public transportation system. • Launch marketing campaigns to inform residents about the benefits of using public transit. • Offer promotional incentives to encourage initial ridership.

Goal: Continuously monitor and enhance the performance of the public transportation system. Objectives: • Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for transit services. • Regularly assess and analyze performance data for route optimization. • Solicit feedback from riders through surveys to identify areas for improvement.

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Conditions Existing

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Existing Conditions

The existing conditions analysis is organized in three sections: Existing Conditions

Market Analysis An analysis of the Transit Market, including a review of population and employment density and other socio-economic and demographic indicators of potential transit need and locations of key destinations in the service area.

1

Existing Transit Analysis Analysis of Existing Transit Services, including ridership, productivity, on-time performance, loading and cost-efficiency on transit services operating in the service area.

2

Service & Performance Gap Analysis A Service & Performance Gap Analysis identifies mismatches between the transit market and existing transit services, performance concerns with existing services and market challenges to providing effective and efficient services to the area. This includes key findings that will be used to guide development of governance, operational and service changes in subsequent phases of service development. 3

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Existing Conditions

2.1 Market Analysis Monroe County, which includes the Florida Keys, is a unique location that attracts affluent residents and millions of annual visitors from around the world. Despite— or because of—this affluence and tourism activity, a small but significant percentage of county residents rely on public transit. In addition to the lower-income, disabled, older and young adult residents that make up the core transit market everywhere, the county’s service and tourism industries employ thousands of seasonal workers, many of them with relatively low incomes.

These modest incomes combine with high housing prices to make it difficult for many of these workers to maintain a private vehicle, creating a significant potential market for public transit. The large number of visitors and need for connectivity from neighborhoods, hotels and resorts offers the opportunity for circulator buses and microtransit services to enhance the tourism experience in the Keys and provide a public amenity for County residents.

Figure 2.1:Key West Transit