MetroWest,
Whenever road or streetscape projects interfere with the location of bus stops, temporary bus stops are erected in locations that are safe and accessible. This is true with the upcoming Manchester Corridor project. Metro is also working collaboratively with the municipalities to ensure incorporation of more optimal bus stop locations in this forthcoming project.
Justin,
Metro's new fare collection project will make passes, including the UPass, available on stored-value plastic smart cards. These cards can be re-loaded, making it unnecessary to obtain a new card each semester. Fare media will not be available via an "open payment system" on cell phones in the near future.
Aligo,
Reliable, on-time service is one of Metro's primary goals, and we pride ourselves on our performance for both MetroBus and MetroLink. We recognize the difficulty late buses or trains can pose to our customers, especially when making connections. We routinely monitor service and adjust MetroBus schedules as needed to ensure that we can adhere to the schedules we post. Our most recent service change on December 1 including several such changes. That said, we do encounter delays, especially during inclement weather when road conditions (and sometimes track conditions) are poor. If you consistently experience a delay or missed connection, please contact Metro to let us know the specifics so that we may address potential schedule problems. You can always reach us at customerservice@metrostlouis.org or at 314-231-2345.
Aligo,
We have had some dialogue about creating technology that would allow customers to call or text in security concerns to our central security dispatch center. This would require both specialized software and the staff resources to respond to these inquiries, so it's not something we have in place yet. In most instances, responsiveness would involve addressing the situation at the next station, as we do not have security personell on every bus and train.
MetroRider,
The art in the Big Bend Tunnel between the Skinker and Big Bend Stations is in need of repair and I understand that there are some technical issues interrupting that repair. Metro is working with original artist to ensure these repairs can be made.
The Skinker MetroLink Station does have two entrances/exists. One opens up near westbound Forest Park Parkway, near side of Skinker. The other opens up on northbound Skinker, near side of Forest Park Parkway. There is a bridge below grade connecting the east and westbound platforms.
LM,
Yes, Metro could consider BRT on Gravois, there is certainly road capacity. That suggestion has been made, but the ridership on that corridor currently isn't very compelling. When we have a successful BRT implemented, I would expect that model to be also applied elsewhere.
Caleb,
We agree that rail can be a powerful catalyst for growth and development and the St. Louis region has benefited tremendously from local and federal investment in our 46-mile, 37-station light rail system, which was most recently expanded in 2006. Metro's long-range plan includes several options for expanding that system. Moving forward on any of these options would require an action by our regional leadership, through East-West Gateway Council of Governments, and would also require that we have a plan in place for funding the project. This would include funding for 100% of the cost to operate new service, plus a local match to any federal resources provided for construction (at least 50% of total project cost). A light rail extension could cost anywhere upwards of $900,000,000, so that requires time to assemble. The award process for federal funds for large-scale projects like light rail is very competitive, as these funds are quite limited.
Because of its cost effectiveness and flexibility, MetroBus service will continue to provide service in most of Metro's expansive service area. We are proud of the reliability of MetroBus, which operates on time over 92% of the time.
