RTS Dedicates New Transit Center

RTS CEO Bill Carpenter was joined today by national, state and local officials to mark the completion of construction of the RTS Transit Center.  The ribbon-cutting and dedication was held at the RTS Transit Center, located at 60 St. Paul Street, Rochester, NY. It will open to the public on Friday, Nov. 28.

The dedication of the RTS Transit Center signals a transformation of public transportation in Rochester. An improved route system and more communications options for customers will make the bus riding experience easier, more comfortable, convenient and efficient.

Carpenter said, “The completion of the RTS Transit Center enables us to transition an outdated public transit model and routing system to one that’s highly efficient. It provides the infrastructure we need to achieve our vision as the preferred transportation choice in our community.”

He continued, “In addition to the over 55,000 customers we serve daily, we believe that growing numbers of Rochester residents and visitors of all ages will begin to choose the bus because it’s safe, convenient, accessible, efficient, even enjoyable—and, of course, affordable.  At just one dollar a ride, our fare remains the lowest in New York State. RTS is now a giant step closer to becoming the transit system people can build their lives around—to access jobs, education, health care, shopping, and the countless activities our region has to offer.”

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “The road to this moment was long, but I am proud to say that Rochester’s new downtown Transit Center has finally arrived at its destination, and will soon provide residents, commuters, and travelers with the state-of-the-art station they deserve. All told, this transit center could spell major economic growth for the entire region, bringing new business and new jobs in by the busload. I am proud to have played a role in making this terminal a reality, including securing over $10 million in federal funds for the construction of the station and a $562,000 federal grant to convert St. Paul Street and North Clinton Avenue into two-way streets, and I look forward to seeing how this new station will revitalize Main Street and all of downtown."

"The RTS Transit Center will transform public transportation throughout downtown Rochester," said Lieutenant Governor Robert J. Duffy. "As the city expands and becomes an urban destination, extending fast, affordable and convenient public transit is crucial. I applaud our state and federal partners as well as the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority for recognizing the importance of this project for the region."

The $50 million building spans an entire block between North Clinton Avenue and St. Paul Street, and features state-of-the-art amenities for more than 20,000 customers who travel through downtown each day. It is fully enclosed and climate-controlled, and boasts on-site customer service representatives, ticket vending machines, trip planning tools, rest rooms, and enhanced technology to meet the needs of visually and physically-challenged customers.

Chairman of the Board of RGRTA Commissioners, Jim Redmond, said, “Every detail of this Transit Center and the operational improvements this building heralds, have been crafted with a relentless focus on making public transit safe, convenient  and accessible for our customers.”

“The new Downtown Transit Center represents an important transformation for downtown. Not only will it help our residents, but traffic will flow more smoothly with the buses off Main Street. I commend the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority for completing this ahead of schedule.” said Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren. “Last winter was particularly challenging for those who rely on public transportation, who had to wait outside in sub-zero temperatures for their buses to arrive. Thanks to support from the federal and state government, this winter they will have a brand new, heated facility to wait for their bus.”

The RTS Transit Center marks the completion of one of 32 key downtown development projects. It frees up Main Street for renewed downtown development, making it easier for pedestrians, bicycles and cars to navigate downtown.

Groundbreaking for the project took place on Nov. 20, 2012. The $50 million cost was funded by the Federal Transportation Administration (80%), the New York State Department of Transportation (10%), and RGRTA (10%).

About RTS

Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public bus transportation service in Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne and Wyoming counties.  Recognized as one of the best-run transit systems in the nation, our 900+ employees proudly enjoy serving our customers who count on us for nearly 18.5 million rides each year.  A public benefit entity and one of four regional transportation authorities in New York State, RTS is governed by 14 appointer commissioners who represent the City of Rochester, County of Monroe, and the surrounding counties in which RTS provides services.  For more information, visit myRTS.com (http://www.myrts.com).

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