Public and Stakeholder Involvement Process
An essential component of the EMTA’s TDP is the inclusion of public and stakeholder input throughout the planning process. Community engagement ensures that the plan reflects the needs, priorities, and lived experiences of those who rely on public transit, as well as those involved in providing or supporting mobility services in Erie County.
The TDP’s involvement process was designed to be inclusive, transparent, and accessible, using a variety of outreach methods to reach a broad cross-section of the community. Engagement activities included:
- Rider & Public Surveys: Online and paper surveys were distributed to current riders and the general public to gather feedback on service satisfaction, unmet needs, and improvement priorities
Fixed Route Passenger Survey
LIFT Passenger Survey
Purpose and Objective of a Transit Development Plan (TDP)
A Transit Development Plan (TDP) serves as a strategic roadmap that guides the growth and improvement of public transportation services over a defined period of usually five to ten years. The primary purpose of a TDP is to evaluate the effectiveness of existing transit services, identify service gaps, and recommend enhancements that meet the mobility needs of the community. The plan aligns transit planning with broader goals related to economic development by outlining short-, mid-, and long-term strategies supported by data and public input. Additionally, the TDP supports funding applications and meets planning requirements set by state and regional agencies by demonstrating a clear, community-driven approach. By involving stakeholders and the public through the planning process, the TDP promotes transparency, builds trust, and ensures that transit improvements reflect the needs and priorities of the people they serve.
Planning Objectives
The primary objective of EMTA’s TDP is to establish a strategic framework that guides service improvements, capital investments, and operational decisions over the next five to ten years. The plan is designed to ensure that EMTA’s transit system continues to meet the evolving needs of Erie County’s residents, workforce, and visitors while promoting greater accessibility, equity, and sustainability.
Key objectives of the TDP include accessing the current performance and coverage of fixed-route and shared-ride services, identifying service gaps and unmet mobility needs – particularly among transit-dependent populations, and recommending service enhancements that improve frequency, reliability, and regional connectivity. The plan also aims to evaluate EMTA’s fare structure, technology systems, and fleet to identify opportunities for modernization and efficiency.
Additionally, the TDP supports EMTA’s efforts to align with local and regional planning goals, including land use development, economic revitalization, and environmental resilience. By incorporating robust public and stakeholder engagement, the plan seeks to build community consensus around transit priorities and ensure that EMTA’s services reflect the values and needs of the people it serves. Ultimately, the TDP provides a clear and actionable roadmap that positions EMTA to adapt, innovate, and grow in a way that improves transportation and the quality of life throughout the Erie region.