Months of complaints about Miami-Dade County’s Better Bus Network, which reimagined service by cutting and altering dozens of routes last fall, have finally led to significant changes. The Department of Transportation authorized adjustments to 21 routes, which took effect this week, addressing issues raised by commuters and highlighting concerns brought to light in February.
Community Feedback Drives Change
Jennifer Wallace, a Metro rider for 20 years, expressed her relief and satisfaction with the recent changes. “You have no idea how happy this has made me,” Wallace said. For five months, Wallace struggled with her commute, arriving 45 minutes late to work due to the changes made to her bus route. Previously, her bus took her from West Kendall to University Station, where she would transfer to the Metrorail and arrive at work on time. The new routing last fall redirected her bus through Coral Gables to the Douglas Station Metrorail stop, adding significant time to her journey.
While the Better Bus Network overhaul improved service for some passengers, many others, like Wallace, faced longer and less convenient commutes. In Miami Beach, riders lost service on Alton Road near Mt. Sinai Hospital, prompting community meetings and a flood of feedback via emails and calls to the county’s 311 service. These voices were heard, leading transit leaders to initiate changes to 21 routes starting Monday.
Adjustments and Improvements Implemented
Sean Anderson, Chief Operations Officer of the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works, acknowledged the issues faced by riders like Wallace. “I’m sorry,” he said. “It kind of breaks my heart to hear that these changes affected her like that. But, the process worked. We listened. The team made adjustments, and now I’m happy to say today we are providing her with that service.”
Adgerson explained that the delay in making these adjustments was due to the need for thorough data analysis and coordination. Additionally, union contracts allow for service changes only three times a year, making the process more complex. This week’s adjustments were the department’s second and largest set of changes so far, addressing numerous complaints and improving service for many commuters. Among the changes expected to return are several previously canceled routes, including a MetroLink service on Alton Road in Miami Beach, slated for reinstatement this fall.
Future Plans for Miami-Dade Transit
While Wallace is content with the improvements to her route, she and other commuters are curious about future developments. To enhance communication and service, transit leaders have launched a TransitConnections program. This initiative aims to provide riders with more access to information about service changes and to gather ongoing feedback from the community.
County leaders are also planning to establish a rider’s council, offering a platform for regular input and ensuring that the voices of Miami-Dade’s transit users continue to shape the future of the Better Bus Network. Through these efforts, the Department of Transportation and Public Works hopes to create a more responsive and efficient public transportation system that meets the needs of all its riders.