News

July 16, 2020

New regional transit study proposes multimodal “FAST” vision for the Triangle

Preliminary findings released from new Freeway And Street-based Transit (FAST) network study – a cooperative initiative of the regional business community and local and state partners

RESEARCH TRIANGLE REGION, N.C.—The Regional Transportation Alliance business coalition, GoTriangle, and the NC Department of Transportation have released preliminary findings of a cooperative study to accelerate a region-wide network of high-quality transit routes to better connect the Triangle area.

The proposed Freeway And Street-based Transit (FAST) network concept is a scalable approach to transform our roadways into “multimodal corridors” that could provide significant and sustainable advantages for public transit, along with enhanced access and mobility for all modes of travel. Consulting firm VHB is leading the FAST study with team members Stantec and Catalyst Design.

Initial study findings include an illustrative 2025 FAST network for the Triangle that would complement upcoming investments in bus rapid transit and commuter rail, directly serve RDU Airport and Research Triangle Park, and capitalize on ongoing and future highway projects.

“The regional business community recognizes the need for effective transportation as our market grows. The preliminary findings from the FAST study provide a game plan to strengthen the mobility connections essential for our region’s ongoing success.”
– Maeve Gardner, chair, Regional Transportation Alliance business coalition

“GoTriangle is constantly looking for more efficient and innovative ways to serve the growing Triangle area. The FAST approach and potential projects will inspire, inform, and advance new ideas that can lead our agency and our regional transit partners into a new era of enhanced transit for our community.”
– Michael Parker, chair, GoTriangle Board of Trustees

“The Department believes the FAST approach could serve as a template for many areas across the state to advance regional transit—we greatly appreciate RTA for initiating the study effort.”
– Julie White, Deputy Secretary for Multimodal Transportation, NC Department of Transportation

View the preliminary FAST network study findings at letsgetmoving.org/FAST
The study partners welcome comments now through August 31, 2020 via FAST@letsgetmoving.org

The Regional Transportation Alliance (RTA) business coalition is the voice of the regional business community on transportation in North Carolina’s Research Triangle region.

GoTriangle is the Triangle’s regional transit provider, improving our area’s quality of life by connecting people and places through safe, reliable and easy-to-use travel choices.

The NC Department of Transportation mission is connecting people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina.

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Contacts:                                                  

Natalie Ridout, RTA                        Burgetta Wheeler, GoTriangle           Marty Homan, NCDOT
natalie@letsgetmoving.org                   bwheeler@gotriangle.org                             mrhoman@ncdot.gov
828.371.0660                                           919.323.1307                                                   919.210.0470