'Island Hopper' 45‑minute fixed route proposed as solution to on‑demand shortfalls

Commissioners revisited the transit plan approved previously and asked whether a 45‑minute fixed route will meet rider demand and whether to add stops in Stock Island. Transit staff (Rogelio) said the current on‑demand service cannot meet demand and that a pivot to a dedicated 45‑minute service — the Island Hopper — is a budget‑sized starting point; a hybrid model or added stops would require additional funding.

Rogelio told the commission the Island Hopper concept grew from more than six months of research; staff recommended starting with the 45‑minute frequency to match the current budget and then modifying frequency or stops after six to eight months based on ridership data.