This fall Metro and its partner jurisdictions launched the Bus Transformation Project. And they've been out in the region surveying people about their experiences with buses. (Allison Davis)

Buses play an important role in the Washington region’s transportation system by affordably connecting residents to jobs, school, and other aspects of daily life. Metro and the other local bus operators like ART, CUE, DASH, DC Circulator, Fairfax Connector, Ride On, and TheBus carry 600,000 trips daily and expand the reach of transit into communities near and far. However, we know that the bus system can serve you and other Washington area residents better.

In September, Metro and its partner jurisdictions and transit agencies launched the Bus Transformation Project with the goal to create a bold, new vision and a collaborative action plan for the future of bus in the region. The project will explore all factors that influence the quality of bus service, from technology and transit priority, to funding structures, coordination, and service provision roles.

Anyone who travels in the region today knows that traffic is increasing, leading to declining bus speeds and longer travel times. Customer expectations have changed and there is increased competition for a fewer passengers. Government budgets are under pressure to do more with less. The Bus Transformation Project presents an opportunity to improve service for customers, develop better ways to fund the system, create clear expectations for transit agencies and roadway operators, and transform organizations to be nimble in the face of quickly changing landscapes.

We need your help, whether you ride the bus sometimes, every day, or not at all!

Take our survey online in English or participe en la encuesta and tell us about your travel choices and your priorities for future investments. By completing the survey, you can enter a drawing for one of five $50 SmarTrip® cards.

Please spread the word about the project and the survey by posting on social media, including in newsletters, and sending the survey to colleagues, friends, and family. We’ll also be out at transit stations and community events through mid-November. Please check our Events page for an event near you. Learn more at bustransformationproject.com.

Allison Davis is the Director of Strategic planning in Metro's Office of Planning and a member of the TPB Technical Committee.