The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA), the largest transit agency in Tennessee, operates 34 fixed bus routes and carries nearly 40,000 passengers each weekday. MATA decided in 2010 to take a comprehensive look at its fixed-route services and create a more efficient and effective service network.
Nelson\Nygaard collected a variety of data, including ride checks, surveys, and several rounds of public outreach. Working closely with MATA staff, we developed a final short range transit plan that lays the groundwork to accomplish a number of improvements, including a defined route hierarchy; improved reliability; more direct, faster, and simpler service; and diversification of service types. The plan did not require any increase in operating costs and was estimated to increase ridership by 15% systemwide.