Transfer Pavillion
VanGO was required to relocate its transfer point in 2004 and is operating at the county-owned park & ride at 301/Smallwood Drive. MTA advised that the new park & ride being constructed at 925/Smallwood Drive would not be able to accommodate VanGO operations due to timing concerns, and indicated that the county should continue using the existing park & ride.
Most of VanGO’s public transit routes converge simultaneously for transfers. This system design allows maximum flexibility for passengers and maximum opportunities for all possible destinations served by VanGO. Although VanGO’s transfer operations are currently working, several concerns have risen due to the overlap of VanGO operations with MTA commuter bus operations and due to the need for all passengers to disembark and wait during staging operations. As a result, the need to segregate VanGO’s transfers from the park & ride aspect is critical to ensure long-term viability for both operations at the 301/Smallwood Drive facility.
The transfer pavilion will provide a designated area for all transfers, will limit potential confusion by having established locations for each route, will provide adequate amenities for passengers who are involved in the transfer operations, will provide for an area from which VanGO staff can disseminate information and assist passengers, and will provide for restroom facilities for drivers. MTA previously awarded VanGO a Design and Engineering grant related to this project. The D & E was completedin 2007; actual construction is expected to begin late spring/early summer 2008.
