Pierce Transit’s Board of Commissioners will hold a special study session and public hearing Nov. 13 on the agency’s proposed 2024 budget. Details of the meetings are as follows:
- Study session, 3-4 p.m. The study session will cover the budget’s details and will be held in person and virtually.
- Public hearing, just after 4 p.m. The public hearing will offer an opportunity for the public to weigh in on any aspect of the proposed budget and will be part of the regular Board of Commissioners’ meeting that begins at 4 p.m.
Details on how to attend the study session and Board meeting/public hearing in person or virtually can be found by visiting PierceTransit.org/board-meetings.
In person meeting location: Pierce Transit Training Center
3720 96th Street SW
Lakewood, WA 98499
Virtual participation:
Dial: 1-253-215-8782 Meeting ID No. 84478253010
Webinar link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84478253010
Pierce Transit’s draft 2024 budget supports an increase in local service to 95 percent of pre-pandemic levels, provided conditions, including staffing levels, progress as anticipated. The 2024 budgeted expenditures for all funds are approximately $309 million, balanced by expected revenues and reserves. Sales tax is expected to make up 84 percent of total budgeted operating revenues, excluding revenue from Pierce Transit’s contract with Sound Transit to provide that agency’s regional service, plus other revenues such as grants and fares. The budget includes 999 FTEs (1,002 positions).
Pierce Transit’s goal with its 2024 budget and throughout the six-year plan framework is to continue building a solid foundation to provide an improved public transportation system that meets the needs of communities served. Along with supporting the agency’s priorities around safety, security, equity and innovation, the budget focuses on:
- Support of Enhanced Bus service on Pacific Avenue/State Route 7
- Continued planning for future high-capacity service in Pierce County
- Support planning and improvements for the aging vehicle maintenance facility
- Further support of increased Transit Operator recruitment and retention
- Wayfinding improvements at Tacoma Dome Station
- Additional electric charging infrastructure to service more electric support vehicles
- Continual enhancements in cyber security and IT infrastructure resilience
Reserves and operating transfers will be used over the next six years to provide capital infrastructure that supports service plans. Reserves comply with required levels established by the Board of Commissioners and provide the ability to deal with adverse economic conditions, emergencies, and exposure to casualty and legal risks.
The proposed 2024 budget can be found on the agency’s website at PierceTransit.org/documents.
The Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners is expected to vote on the proposed 2024 budget at its Dec. 11 meeting.
