Transit Access Improvement Program

What is the Transit Access Improvement Program (TAIP)?

PRT's Transit Access Improvement Program (TAIP) includes processes, policies, and guidance for transit access improvements, such as bus stops and connecting sidewalks.

As part of TAIP, PRT coordinates with partner agencies like local municipalities, real estate developers, and PennDOT to improve bus stops as well as routes to access bus stops, ensuring they are safe and accessible. This work includes reviewing plans from partner agencies, identifying priority areas for improvements, and contributing funding for projects.

Note that PRT has a separate Station Improvement Program that addresses "T" light rail and Busway stations and surrounding areas.

Developing a TAIP Score

Census Tracts were scored based on criteria including (1) Sidewalk Gap, (2) Equity Need, and (3) Transit Propensity, which were combined to create a composite “TAIP Need Score” shown on the following page.

The TAIP Need Score ranks each Census Tract in the county based on the severity of its combined need in these categories.

The composite TAIP Need Score shows areas that have an overall higher need for transit access improvements based on Sidewalk Gap, Equity Score, and Transit Propensity. Only tracts that are served by PRT routes were included in final prioritization.

Prioritization Process

Prioritize areas of highest need

Use Geographic Information System (GIS) software to identify priority projects in these areas.
Prioritize opportunities to address needs gaps across the PRT service area to improve safety, comfort, convenience, and attractiveness of transit, focusing on equity and potential project impact.
Develop “Bus stop need score” by using bus stop survey data to identify and prioritize bus stops based on need

Analyze assets compared to needs

Identify existing assets & infrastructure; processes; needs/gaps.
Develop “TAIP need score” by Census Tract, based on 3 key criteria: Transit Propensity, Equity Score, and Sidewalk Need. Identify top-ranking areas for closer investigation.

Build projects

Design, engineer, and construct projects.
Work with partner agencies to design and construct improvements. Create agreements to cover maintenance needs and responsibilities.

Institutionalize process

Enact new or modified policies and practices to scale program;
Review results of improvements and implmenetation processes; revise as needed to address issues.
Institutionalize process with clear procedures and policies to facilitate coordination on future improvements.

Map of Allegheny County census tracts colored on a scale representing composite TAIP need score, with municipal boundaries

From INDD doc, do we want to include this?

The Transit Access Improvement Program (TAIP) will enhance overall transit experience by identifying and addressing critical gaps in infrastructure through a systematic and data-driven approach.

TAIP’s primary objective is to identify existing transit access infrastructure and address critical needs, focusing on key areas with the highest demand. Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, TAIP analyzes sidewalk networks, pedestrian crossings, and transit stop amenities to create a comprehensive overview of the existing transit landscape. The program introduces metrics to prioritize areas and projects based on factors such as sidewalk gaps, safety scores, and ridership demands.

By employing GIS technology, we aim to make informed choices regarding infrastructure improvements. The program’s objective prioritizes transparency, integrity, and equity, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and with a clear rationale.

Recognizing the importance of collaboration, TAIP engages with GIS experts, partner agencies, and the community to create a shared vision for transit accessibility. Through standard guidelines, open communication, and ongoing feedback loops, TAIP seeks to optimize spending, secure future funding, and establish a sustainable framework for ongoing transit improvement. Together, we envision a future where transit is accessible, safe, and an integral part of community life in Allegheny County. TAIP represents a commitment to shaping a practical and efficient transit system that benefits all residents.

Craig Toocheck
Senior Planner

TAIP Goals

Increase accessibility and ridership by improving physical access to transit.
Create a quality transit experience that provides all riders with a dignified, safe, and accessible journey from door to door.
Improve how we get things done by documenting processes for project identification, funding, and prioritization.
Support regional efforts and goals around economic development, affordable housing, equity, sustainability, etc.

Quick Facts

Fewer than 400 stops meet all critical accessibility criteria. These stops account for 64% of all boardings, but only 23% of ramp deploys are at such more accessible stops.
Fewer than one-fifth of stops are really accessible.
Only 7% of stops have a shelter (serving 30% of riders)
Only 45% of ramp deployments are an accessible stops (5x8 boarding area; sidewalk; and at least 1 curb ramp at an end).
43% of stops are not on good sidewalk networks (19% of boardings)
29% of stops are not on a sidewalk at all (8% of boardings)
55% of stops are not at a controlled crossing (48% of boardings)
45% of stops have no safe crossing nearby at all (22% of boardings)

Agency Goals Met

A3.2: Prioritize investments and economic development opportunities within high equity communities (i.e., neighborhoods, affordable housing, greenspaces, and planning)

Engage PRT