As Asheville evaluates the future of its transit system, we face a pivotal choice: Stretch service thin across the entire city or invest in frequent, reliable transit along key corridors where it can truly succeed. We should choose ridership.
Asheville’s comprehensive plan envisions a walkable city, shaped by vibrant mixed-use corridors and compact, connected development. Prioritizing ridership aligns directly with this vision. Frequent service attracts more riders, supports higher-density development and creates the kind of transit culture that helps reduce car dependence. These are not just transportation outcomes — they’re city-shaping tools.
Expanding coverage to the farthest reaches of the city may sound equitable, but it stretches resources too thin to be effective for anyone. Infrequent service is unreliable service, and unreliable service doesn’t shift travel behavior or support long-term change. It’s time we recognize that where we invest transit service helps determine where and how Asheville grows…