WRA was hired to provide an implementation plan for three scenarios, including the maximum number of chargers supported by the existing site electrical and mechanical systems, maximum number of chargers with minimal upgrades, and the maximum number with electrical and mechanical upgrades. High speed overhead pantograph charging was also included.

This includes managing surveys, the development of the survey plan, data collector recruitment and training, deployment of pilot and final surveys, coding, analysis, and the preparation of a final report.

The facility includes maintenance bays and drive-through bus wash. A 41,000 SF bus storage building houses 70 buses. A two-story, 36,000 SF administration building houses multiple department staff including transportation, purchasing, parts storage, and public works, while a 7,000 SF public safety support building accommodates storage for public safety equipment and vehicles. Separate building components accommodate police storage, emergency response storage, and beach patrol.

The North Carolina Statewide Public Transportation Strategic Plan lays the foundation for local and state governments’ continued investment. By 2040, North Carolina is expected to add 3.6 million new residents growing to nearly 14 million persons. The State’s population over 65 years of age will add 1 million persons and approximately 70 percent of North Carolina’s population will live in urbanized areas. Rapid population growth coupled with older residents and growing traffic congestion requires increased transit investment.

The development of the Plan was a valuable opportunity to bring together the creativity and energy of representatives from government, business and non-profit organizations throughout Central Maryland to develop a plan that focuses on economic development, regional mobility, service integration, and emerging transportation options.

The facility was planned for 120 buses, initially 44 diesel buses and 28 electric buses. By 2029, DDOT plans to expand the fleet and convert to zero-emission.

WRA was selected to conduct an analysis of all aspects of the Centre Area Transportation Authority’s (CATA) current fare collection system, fare structure, fare policies, contracts and financial budgets. 

The original facilities constructed for CATA were no longer sufficient, so CATA hired a design team to plan and design a new complex for 120 buses. WRA was part of the planning, concept design and final design effort for the new complex.

This Bus Stop Accessibility Audit included an inventory of boarding and alighting areas (BAAs), regulatory signs and bus shelters within the bus system.  Field investigations with tablet computers linked to a GIS database were completed by crews throughout the region.  The evaluation found approximately 86% of the 4,053 boarding and alighting areas within the BaltimoreLink Bus System non-compliant with ADA guidelines.

WRA has updated prior route planning, outlined procurement and operational alternatives and created a cost model. Important trip destinations are located within the City as well as outside the City within Glynn County. WRA developed a cost model based on a preliminary route and service plan in order to help facilitate the discussions between the City, County, Chamber of Commerce, Georgia DOT and other important stakeholders about the extent and funding responsibilities.