Transit changes would streamline Durham-Chapel Hill and Raleigh-RDU routes

Three regional transit agencies proposed changes today to reduce duplication in their bus routes and provide more options for riders on the U.S. 15-501 corridor between Durham and Chapel Hill, and to launch direct bus service between the airport and downtown Raleigh.

The proposed changes, to take effect in August, include:

* A new Triangle Transit route from downtown Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, continuing on to the regional transfer center in Research Triangle Park. It would provide Raleigh's first direct bus link to the airport.

* A new transfer station at New Hope Commons serving riders who switch between Chapel Hill Transit and Durham Area Transportation Authority (DATA) buses. Chapel Hill Transit would extend its D Route to include New Hope Commons.

* A Triangle Transit bus route to connect UNC Hospitals and Durham Station, DATA's downtown transit center, via downtown Chapel Hill and Duke University, eventually with new park-and-ride lots along the way.

Some stops on this route, including New Hope Commons, would be eliminated to reduce the trip time. The Chapel Hill-Durham route would no longer continue to Triangle Transit's regional transfer center in Research Triangle Park.

* A change in DATA's Route 10 to provide more frequent service to Garrett Road, Patterson Place, University Drive and New Hope Commons, and this route would cut direct service to Woodcroft.

Other changes are proposed between Chapel Hill and RTP and between Durham and RTP.

The proposals will be aired at three public meetings next week:

• Tuesday, March 23, 2010 (10:00am-2:00pm): Public information session at Durham Station.
• Wednesday, March 24, 2010 (4:00-6:00pm): Public information session at Chapel Hill Bible Church, 260 Erwin Rd.
• Thursday, March 25, 2010 (4:00-6:30pm): Public information session at Triangle Transit Board Room, 4600 Emperor Blvd, Durham.