Public Hearing on Proposed Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) Route Network Changes Identified in the Route Study Resolution to be Considered April 6, 2026 (Committee of the Whole/Public Works Committee)

The Winston-Salem Transit Authority (WSTA) is proposing significant changes to its route network, set for City Council consideration on April 6, 2026. These changes aim to improve service frequency, create more direct routes, and introduce new crosstown services, while reallocating resources from less popular routes.

Key Proposed Changes:

• Increased Frequency: Eight popular routes (81, 86, 89, 92, 93, 96, 103, 105) will see their service frequency increase from every 60 minutes to every 30 minutes.
• Route Modifications: Several routes (87, 93, 104) will be shortened or have their geographies adjusted to improve travel speed and efficiency.
• New Crosstown Routes: Two new routes, WSTA-X North and WSTA-X South, will be introduced to connect key areas without requiring transfers through downtown.
• Microtransit Zone: Route 97 will be replaced by a pilot microtransit zone, offering on-demand rideshare-like service within a specific area.
• Route Eliminations: Several less popular routes (82, 88, 97, 101, 102, 108, 109) will be discontinued, with their operational hours reallocated to higher-demand services.

These proposed changes build upon a 2020 route study and initial service adjustments made in March 2025 that demonstrated increased ridership on higher-frequency routes. Public engagement has included multiple meetings and an online survey, with feedback indicating that while users of retained services are generally in favor, those losing direct service are opposed, particularly concerning the elimination of Route 108. The WSTA anticipates these changes will improve service for existing riders and attract new ones, with no material fiscal impact anticipated.