The Denton County Transportation Authority recently released first quarter ridership numbers for this current fiscal year.
Overall, the agency experienced 3 percent growth during October through December in comparison to same growth in fiscal year 2012. The most notable increase was with the
A-train, which carried 42 percent more passengers during this period. This strong ridership trend is also reflected in January’s monthly ridership report, with the A-train carrying 43 percent more than the previous January.
DCTA finds the increases to be a good indication of the success of recent service changes. In August, the agency added midday rail service closing the 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. gap in the schedule, as well as expanding Friday Night and Saturday service. In January, a weekday evening southbound train A-train departure was added to the schedule to better serve university evening classes and later work schedules.
“Our recent changes were in direct response to customer feedback” stated Jim Cline, DCTA president. “Clearly, our customers have responded positively to these changes. As we plan for the next stages of service improvements, we are excited about what the future holds.”
On Feb. 28, DCTA staff will present proposed updates to the agency five year operating and capital plan at the annual retreat of the authority’s board of directors. In addition to addressing capital needs and maintenance of the system, the plan focuses on improving the passenger experience with improved amenities and expanded bus and rail services.
“We see the planned expansion of I-35 as an opportunity to grow ridership by providing an alternative” stated Cline. “Our next series of improvements will position us to attract and retain the new users.”
