RTC Introduces for Dec. 2 Transit Service Changes to Bring Shorter Wait Times
Beginning Sunday, Dec. 2, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada implemented its annual transit service changes and improvements that include increased service on nine popular routes. The transit agency has also updated its rideRTC transit app with additional functionality, including a safety app, and will debut 55 environmentally friendlier buses next year.
Service changes are taking place on routes where improvements are most needed. For example, service on Route 115 (Nellis/Stephanie) into a busy and growing area of Henderson doubled to a 20-minute frequency. Route 210 (Lake Mead Boulevard) now runs every 20 minutes during weekday daytime hours. The BHX (Boulder Highway Express) will see Saturday afternoon frequency improved to every 15 minutes. In total, 15 of the RTC’s 39 routes will now run every 20 minutes or better during weekday daytime hours, offering convenient service.
Frequency on all arterial routes has also been simplified to four categories – 60, 30, 20, and 15 minutes – during weekday daytime hours. All of these changes mean less wait time and improved transfers for riders.
The RTC is also updating its rideRTC app with greater functionality. The rideRTC app, which allows users to find their bus, plan their trip and buy transit passes from their smartphone, will integrate Transit Watch, a new rider safety app that enables passengers to report non-emergency incidents such as transit-related offenses, suspicious activity and safety issues. These reports will go directly to the RTC security’s contractor dispatch center, which will review the submissions and direct them for follow up to the appropriate agency, such as the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The app will be available for download by the end of the year.
Users must update the rideRTC app for Transit Watch to be included and operational on their phones. Those not using rideRTC can download the Transit Watch app for free via iTunes and Google Play. The app is not intended for emergencies; instead, users are urged to call 9-1-1 just as they would in any other emergency.
Finally, in 2019 the RTC will debut 55 new environmentally friendly buses, replacing 55 older diesel vehicles. The 40 and 60-foot models are powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), supporting the RTC’s goal to operate more than 400 buses at nearly 100 percent CNG to reduce its carbon footprint.
