The City of Jackson has launched the ConnectJXN: Transit Plan, a study designed to improve JTRAN’s fixed-route bus and paratransit services.

The study will create a blueprint for a modernized JTRAN network that adapts to changing community needs and technologies, creating better connections through direct and reliable routes, promoting fair and equal access to opportunities throughout the City, and enhancing operational efficiency.

The ConnectJXN: Transit Plan is a powerful opportunity to reinvent what transit looks like in the City of Jackson,” said Jordan Hillman, Director of Planning for the City of Jackson. “We have heard the challenges our users experience using a system that largely looks the same as it did 30 years ago. We believe this transit plan and the resulting new route plan will be a step forward in providing a balance of frequency of service and coverage across the City. Current and future rider participation in the survey and engagement work is critical.”

“A city on the move deserves an efficient transit system,” said Christine Welch, Deputy Director, Office of Transportation for the City of Jackson, and project manager for the study. “That’s why I’m excited to finally offer Jackson a progressive route system that better meets the needs of our passengers. Our transit study will provide just that by getting people where they need to go more efficiently and providing greater access to all.”

The announcement of the study was made during the unveiling of four new hybrid-electric busses, purchased and made possible by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Low-No Emissions Grant Program.

The new busses mark the transition of JTRAN to low emission vehicles. The busses will go into service this week.

Leaders said they would add eight more hybrid-electric busses over the next two years through another $5.5M grant from USDOT and FTA announced this past summer.

“The City is excited to announce the addition of four new, state-of-the-art hybrid-electric buses to the JTRAN fleet,” said Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba. “These new buses, along with the launch of the ConnectJXN: Transit Plan, represent the latest steps our City is taking to provide sustainable and equitable transportation for Jackson residents. I encourage all metro-Jackson area residents and stakeholders to share their vision for the future of JTRAN through the online survey at JTRANtransitplan.com.”

Visit JTRANtransitplan.com for more information and to take the survey.