Riders To See Changes In Stops, Schedules

Here are some of the more commonly asked questions about the Spokane Transit Authority’s new downtown bus station.

Q. Where do I catch my bus downtown?

A. At one of 10 loading zones on Sprague and Riverside avenues outside the station. The zones have electronic signs (not yet in operation) to help riders spot their buses.

Television monitors inside also provide route information.

STA drivers will make brief stops at other downtown locations if riders need to get on or off a bus someplace other than the station.

Q. Where at the station will riders board and exit paratransit vans?

A. Paratransit vans are the only vehicles that will enter the station. They will drop off and pick up riders in the basement. An elevator large enough for wheelchairs will take those passengers to the main floor or skywalk level.

Q. Why wasn’t the center designed so all riders boarded buses inside?

A. Buses exiting or entering the building would have crossed sidewalks, disrupting pedestrian traffic, said STA Executive Director Allen Schweim.

Q. Has my bus schedule changed?

A. Probably. Some bus numbers have changed, as well.

New schedules are available at the station, on buses and at outlets that sell bus tokens and passes. Or, call 328-RIDE.

Q. When is the station open?

A. The same hours as bus service: 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. weekdays; 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Saturdays; 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sundays.

A shop where riders can buy tokens and passes and get information will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.

Shops and restaurants that eventually open in the station will set their own hours.

Q. Will my taxes or bus fares increase to pay for the station?

A. No. STA paid for the $20.6 million center out of its $40 million bank account. The agency’s money comes from federal grants, a portion of the state sales tax, fares and other sources.

Q. How will the center change driving downtown?

A. Riverside Avenue will be three lanes rather than four between Post and Wall. Sprague Avenue will be two lanes rather than three between those same cross streets.

There will be far more buses eastbound on Riverside and westbound on Sprague. Far fewer buses will use Howard Street than before.

Some parking spaces will be gained where buses used to wait for passengers. About the same number will be lost surrounding the center (most closed when construction began).

Q. Does the center offer parking for cars?

A. No.

Q. Is there a safe place to store my bicycle at the station?

A. Bicycle commuters can use a bicycle locker in the basement. Rent is $5 a month with a three-month minimum. STA also will charge a refundable $35 deposit. The lockers are not available by the day.

, DataTimes