As the grant is wrapping up, the consultants have produced some promising results. The Transit Rider's Council has formed and is working on dealing more efficiently with customer complaints. An inventory of all transportation services in Helena has been completed, in hopes that more coordination between these services can happen in the future.
A new marketing plan has been developed for HATS. The plan would change the name of HATS to be Capital Transit. The buses would be painted in distinct colors (indigo blue with gold and dark red accents, to match the color scheme of Downtown Helena) in order to stand out as a public transit service. A website is being developed to make it easier for riders to find information about the bus service. Bus stops would all be marked with signs and schedules (many of the current bus stops are not signed at all). These changes would make HATS more visible in the community, and more accessible for new riders.
Most notably, a transit service improvement has been recommended that includes a broader range of fixed route service to better serve Helena. While details are still being finalized, this new service could be in place by next summer. The service improvement provides access to all of the existing fixed route service area, as well as areas current not accessible by public transit, including the West side, the Capital campus, and Carroll College.
Note that the area shaded in blue is the standard 1/4-mile walking distance covered by the route.
Find more information about the Transit Planning 4 All grant process, including details on the Marketing and Transit Service Improvements, here: http://helenaareatransportationforall-eandrewscommunityengagement.nationbuilder.com/about
