Subject:
Title
Approval Re: Proposed Transit Services fixed-route adjustments, consisting of the elimination of Route 33-Eau Gallie Arts District and frequency reductions on Routes 4-520 Connector, 6-Cocoa/Rockledge, and 28-North Melbourne.
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Fiscal Impact:
Approval of these service modifications will result in an estimated annual operational cost savings of $720,667.
Dept/Office:
Transit Services Department
Requested Action:
Recommendation
It is requested that the Board of County Commissioners authorize Transit Services staff to implement service modifications consisting of the elimination of Route 33-Eau Galle and frequency reductions on Routes 4 and 6 from 20-minute frequency to 30-minute frequency, and Route 28 from 30-minute service to 60-minute effective October 10th, 2026.
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Summary Explanation and Background:
Over the past several months, the transit system (Space Coast Area Transit) has experienced severe and sustained increases in fuel prices. These escalating operational costs have outpaced budgeted projections. To remain within the approved operating budget, ensure efficiency and long-term sustainability, reductions in service to minimize these expenses are being proposed.
Staff conducted a comprehensive review of system productivity, identifying routes with the lowest passenger-per-hour and areas to reduce service while minimizing the impact on our transit-dependent riders. Based on an analysis of ridership data and route efficiency, the following adjustments are proposed:
1. Route Elimination: Route 33-Eau Gallie Arts District
• Current Service: Route services the Eau Gallie Arts District via Pineapple and Highland Ave and along Eau Gallie Blvd. to Canova Beach Park three time a day.
• Justification: This route currently demonstrates very low ridership with an average of less than 1 passenger per each revenue hour in service. Eliminating this route will yield fuel and operational savings. Riders in this area will still have access to nearby Route 30 along Eau Gallie Blvd.
2. Frequency Reductions: Routes 4-520 Connector, 6-Cocoa/Rockledge and 28-North Melbourne
• Current Service: Routes 4 and 6 currently operate with buses scheduled to arrive every 20-minute and Route 28 on a 30-minute frequency.
• Proposed Service: Service for each hour will be increased to 30-minute intervals for Routes 4 & 6, with Route 28 going to once an hour.
• Justification: By reducing the frequency rather than eliminating routes entirely, Transit Services aims to ensure passengers systemwide will maintain access to essential fixed route services. This reduction will decrease daily fuel consumption and associated costs of bus operations.
Per Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requirements, a Public Hearing was held regarding elimination of Route 33 on September 28, 2026 at the Eau Gallie Public Library. No public comments were received.
Clerk to the Board Instructions:
Please provide a copy of Board Memo to Jacqueline Daise, 401 S Varr Ave, Cocoa, Florida 32922.