TARC (Transit Authority of River City)
Definition
Louisville’s public bus system, providing 2.8 million rides annually across 50+ routes. Governed by independent authority, funded by Metro government, fares, and federal grants. Critical mobility tool for car-free residents.
Louisville Context
TARC serves 30,000+ riders daily, predominantly low-income residents, seniors, people with disabilities, and students. Current challenges: infrequent service (30-60 minute waits), limited weekend/evening hours, and routes designed for suburbs not urban density. Dave improves TARC: (1) increase frequency on major routes to 15-minute service, (2) expand weekend/evening service, (3) real-time arrival information at all stops, (4) bus shelters with seating, (5) fare integration with bikeshare.
Why It Matters
Car ownership costs $10,000+ annually—out of reach for 20% of Louisville households. TARC provides mobility for work, healthcare, groceries. But infrequent service and poor conditions make riders wait in rain, miss connections, and lose jobs due to unreliable transit.
Dave’s Proposal
Invest in TARC improvements: increase frequency to 15-minute service on major routes, expand weekend/evening service, real-time arrival information, bus shelters with seating at all stops, and integrate fares with bikeshare.