Budget adoption puts VIA on the road to improved service
SAN ANTONIO (Sept. 14, 2017) – VIA Metropolitan Transit applauded the San Antonio City Council’s decision Thursday to provide funding for improved public transportation services for the community. An investment of $4.3 million from the City’s General Fund in the FY18 budget will make it possible to significantly cut wait times on nine VIA routes and along five heavily-traveled corridors by May 2018.
“As we prepare to welcome roughly 1 million more people to our region over the next two decades, VIA will continue to be a good steward of its resources while building a stronger transit system to improve mobility and accessibility,” VIA President/CEO Jeff Arndt said. “We are thankful for the efforts of the entire City Council, City Manager, and vocal champions like Councilman Rey Saldaña, for supporting transit solutions and making local investment in public transportation a priority for our region.”
Recent events impacting local gasoline supplies helped shed light on the real need for efficient and attractive public transportation choices. VIA provides service to an area the size of Houston’s Metro Transit system but is funded by a ½-cent sales tax, compared to other major transit authorities in Texas which receive a full cent. Building a better bus system requires a greater investment of dollars but also a vision for a more sustainable future.
“We are grateful for the continued support of Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Council members, and City staff who have reaffirmed our shared commitment to provide better transit options in order to build a more sustainable future for our region,” VIA Board Chair Hope Andrade said Thursday. “This is a meaningful step toward expanding access to opportunity for our neighbors, families and businesses throughout the region.”
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About VIA Metropolitan Transit
VIA provides regional multimodal transportation options that connect our community to opportunity, support economic vitality, and enhance quality of life throughout our region. VIA, recognized by the Texas Transit Association in 2016 as the outstanding Metro Transit Authority of the year, serves 14 member cities and the unincorporated areas of Bexar County, operating seven days a week on 90 routes. Last year, VIA provided 40 million rides across the region. VIA’s AAA bond rating reflects the organization’s sound management and financial practices. Visit www.VIAinfo.net for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
CONTACT: Lorraine Pulido, Ph.D.
c 210-380-6895