Ann Arbor, Mich.'s TheRide approves $30M budget

Michigan-based Ann Arbor Transportation Authority's (TheRide) board of directors approved a FY 2012 operating budget of $30.36 million. The budget maintains and improves TheRide's core services, appropriately funds TheRide's 2012 work plan and allows TheRide to continue to support the implementation of the countywide Transit Master Plan.

According to TheRide CEO Michael Ford, next year's work plan is aggressive. It includes continued development of a countywide transit network, improving core services and expanding service options, including piloting shuttle service to the airport; expanding vanpool services countywide; improving service along Washtenaw Avenue, TheRide's busiest corridor; and launching a new website with improved trip planning and real-time applications.

The work plan also includes developing and implementing a five-year information technology plan, expanding the current bus garage capacity, expanding Night Ride service to Ypsilanti and redeveloping the Blake Transit Center.