WMATA Bus Network Redesign

WMATA’s Better Bus Network Redesign revitalized systemwide bus service to better meet customer needs across the DC region by aligning service with where, how, and when people travel. Since travel patterns had shifted over the 50+ years since Metrobus’s creation—amid post-pandemic uncertainty, a looming fiscal cliff, and a region with seven local bus providers—the project refocused service on underserved, untapped, and successful markets.

Foursquare ITP completed a detailed market and existing-service assessment, including an automated decision-support dashboard for rapid route-performance insight. Collaborating with Metrobus planners, bus operators, and local jurisdictions, we led the development of a draft visionary plan and a short-term network to improve accessibility, competitiveness, and equity. After public and stakeholder input, we produced a resource-constrained network for planned implementation. The final network provided seven percent more service with the same resources, expanded access to key destinations, and was expected to generate 13,000 additional daily trips.

Led by Foursquare ITP, over the course of this project, WMATA completed three phases of public and stakeholder engagement. The campaign—among the agency’s largest—received the APTA Grand Award for Best Marketing and Communications Educational Initiative, and the project also earned APTA’s Outstanding Partnership in Public Transportation, awarded jointly to WMATA, Foursquare ITP, and partners. Regional leaders noted it “set the standard” for engagement. Once the new network had been approved, we supported WMATA’s launch within seven months of finalizing the network. Foursquare ITP ensured accurate data for customer information systems, produced internal and external education and communications materials, and led components of a large-scale campaign to familiarize riders with new routes. We also supported the bus stop review process; assisted in the development, review, and installation of nearly 10,000 bus stop flags; and, with partners, piloted outreach through trusted community organizations to sustain relationships.