WeGo unveils 'WeGo Forward' service plan: faster frequent routes, new transit centers and expanded hours

WeGo staff and consultants presented 'WeGo Forward,' an update to the agency’s multimodal plan that details service, infrastructure and operational changes designed to implement voter‑approved 'Choose How You Move' investments.

Jeff Slater, a consultant working with WeGo, said the plan emphasizes faster, more reliable service through two downtown transit centers (SoBro and East Bank), all‑access corridors with potential BRT or rapid bus features and a frequent transit network of 17 routes operating every 15 minutes or better. Slater outlined proposals for nine routes to move to 24‑hour service, 10 new fixed routes and expanded cross‑town connections to reduce transfers.

The plan also proposes pedestrian and stop improvements — including about 86 miles of new sidewalks — and targeted transit center development sized to local demand (from simple, well‑equipped stops to larger transit centers in higher‑demand locations). Staff said presenters aim to refine draft recommendations, identify a range of infrastructure improvements and begin public outreach in March.

Board members asked about phasing, costs and RTA coordination. Slater said the 'WeGo Forward' horizon extends to 2050, allowing more projects to be included than the earlier 2040 plan, and noted that RTA items remain aspirational because counties and cities would need to commit funding. Staff said they will present cost estimates and an implementation plan to balance projects against available funding.