Downtown Circulation Studies

VIA Downtown Circulator System Study

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This study was a thorough analysis of the existing streetcar service and the fixed-route services traveling through the central business district of San Antonio, Texas. Key to the plan recommendations were public outreach and community involvement for downtown businesses, residents, and major transit generators.

An important objective of this study was to include citizens early in the planning process so the public input received would be used to identify the mobility needs within the downtown business district. Specific public involvement guiding principles used to achieve a successful public involvement process included:

• Encourage stakeholder and community member input and participation.
• Develop and communicate clear and concise project information.
• Use various methods of disseminating information to stakeholders,community members and media.
• Document all stakeholders’ and community members’ comments.
• Inform stakeholders and community members why input is important, how it will be used and give serious consideration to all comments.
• Respond promptly to all inquiries.
• Host public workshops in a safe and convenient location.

The team, in coordination with staff and the local advisory committee, identified target groups for the study, including major stakeholders, advisory committee members, and key local residents and businesses. These stakeholders are:

• City of San Antonio, Planning and Community Development, Housing and Neighborhood Services, Public Works, Economic Development, Infrastructure Services
• Local Downtown Businesses:
  – San Antonio Tourism Council
  – Downtown Alliance
  – UTSA – Downtown Campus
  – Convention and Visitors Bureau