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.

The Comprehensive Transit Service Review included 12 fare-free fixed routes as well as 10 dial-a-ride routes serving rural Watauga County. AppalCART has provided university, small town and human service transit. The system’s funding comes from multiple sources including state and federal funds, university parking fees, student fees, Town of Boone and Watauga County and fees from Medicaid and other human services programs.

The transit center feasibility study was a preliminary screening exercise and the foundation for the next step as the basis to guide future decisions regarding the location of one or more transit centers in the Parole area. 

The Maplewood Mall Renovation project was awarded the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (apbp) Delaware Valley Chapter Project of the Year Award at the Vision Zero PHL Week 2021 Recovery Through Safety & Mobility Conference.

WRA attended Friday's ribbon cutting for the new transportation facility in Ocean City, MD. Rick Meehan, the Mayor of Ocean City; Greg Slater, the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation; and Governor Larry Hogan were on hand to share their remarks and tour the facility.