San Antonio Approves Investment in Public Transit Improvements

Sept. 15, 2017
VIA Metropolitan Transit applauded the San Antonio City Council’s decision to provide funding for improved public transportation services for the community.

VIA Metropolitan Transit applauded the San Antonio City Council’s decision 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.”