VIA Board of Trustees Approves Budget for FY2018
VIA Metropolitan Transit has announced it will increase service by nearly 5 percent with its FY18 Operating Budget. VIA’s Board of Trustees voted to approve the $228.6 million budget that maintains fares at current levels, expands service, opens a new Park & Ride facility, and adds new fleet vehicles. VIA’s new fiscal year begins Oct. 1, 2017.
The FY18 budget includes a $4.3 million investment from the City of San Antonio to help cut wait times and increase frequency of service. City Council approved the allocation from its General Fund in September. The FY18 budget was developed looking at a five-year planning horizon with goals focused on improving mobility and accessibility while building a stronger transit system across the region.
“This budget moves us toward our goal to provide more attractive options that will help grow ridership, and shift focus in the community from moving cars to moving people,” said VIA President/CEO Jeffrey C. Arndt. “With smart investments and innovation, VIA is taking important steps toward building a transit system that can provide service for all.”
In fiscal year 2018, VIA will continue to enhance its bus fleet with the addition of 54 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, eight Prímo buses, and eight electric buses, reflecting the agency’s sustainability commitment. The agency will also increase frequency, add routes, and continue to build new facilities and renovate existing ones.
The Board of Trustees also approved a five-year capital budget, which includes several initiatives, such as the Stone Oak Park & Ride, and the Zarzamora and S.W. Military Prímo Routes.
