Capital Region Operations & Maintenance Facility and Transfer Center
Overview
rabbittransit is currently planning a new transit facility located just south of the existing Capital Area Transit (CAT) facility on Cameron Street in Harrisburg. rabbittransit was successful in securing the FY 2024 RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) Grant that will provide a portion of the funding needed for this project and will be applying for additional grants to help address this critical transportation project in our community. This project aims to improve transportation infrastructure while focusing on sustainability, equity, and enhanced service delivery.
The existing CAT facility and infrastructure that this project aims to improve has been serving our community for over 120 years. The facility has been a crucial part of our local transportation network dating back to the 1920’s. However, over the decades, it has faced increasing challenges due to its aging infrastructure, growing transit service demands, and evolving transportation technologies. Some of the key issues being addressed with a new facility include deteriorating structural conditions, outdated technology systems, limited capacity to handle current vehicle volumes, and inadequate provisions for modern safety standards. Additionally, the facility’s design predates current ADA accessibility requirements and sustainability considerations, making it increasingly difficult to meet the diverse needs of our community. These longstanding issues not only impact the efficiency and reliability of our transportation system, but also pose potential safety risks and limit our ability to support economic growth in the region. Our proposed project is designed to comprehensively address these challenges, bringing our infrastructure into the 21st century while also preparing for future needs.
Key Project Components
- State of Good Repair and Safety
– Addressing current infrastructure deficiencies
– Implementing safety and security improvements
– Enhancing overall transportation system reliability
- Climate Action Initiatives
– Advancing CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) vehicle fuel
– Incorporating sustainable design elements, such as natural daylighting
– Reducing carbon footprint of transportation infrastructure, including the use of solar
– Aligning with broader climate action goals in the Region
- Utility Consumption Reduction
– Implementing energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting throughout
– Use of solar panels
– Promoting long-term sustainability in operations
- Service Delivery and Customer Experience
– Create a Transfer Facility that functions properly
– Improving overall transportation service quality and passenger amenities
– Enhancing user experience and accessibility for all members of the public
– Focusing on equity in access and service provision
Project Timeline
Demolition Begin – Spring 2025
Ground Breaking – Fall 2025
Project Completion – 2029
Funding
rabbittransit is actively seeking additional funding. This summer it was announced that rabbittransit was awarded the FY 2024 RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) Grant of $25M to support this vital infrastructure project. The RAISE program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation, provides a unique opportunity for communities to invest in road, rail, transit, and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives. Our funding strategy includes exploring other federal and state grants. We believe that this comprehensive approach to funding will not only make our project financially viable, but also demonstrate our community’s commitment to improving our transportation infrastructure for the benefit of all residents.
Community Impact
This project is designed to primarily benefit Cumberland and Dauphin Counties, as well as the City of Harrisburg. This facility will serve as the head-quarters for the newly formed Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority (SRTA) resulting from the merger of Capital Area Transit (CAT) and rabbittransit with service being provided to the surrounding eleven counties in the Susquehanna Region.
Economically, we anticipate job creation through the construction of the new facility and long-term jobs in the operational roles of the transit system. Further, increased business attraction is expected due to the improved infrastructure and enhanced efficiency in providing services that will enhance the public’s access to jobs in the region.
Quality of life improvements are a key focus, with upgrades aimed at enhancing public safety, increasing accessibility to essential services and recreational areas, and promoting a healthier environment through sustainable design. The project also emphasizes social equity by connecting underserved areas to job opportunities and providing more affordable transportation options.
Looking to the future, this project will integrate smart technologies and improve our community’s resilience to climate challenges. These enhancements are designed to create a more vibrant, equitable, and sustainable community, making our area an attractive place for current residents and future generations alike.
Stay Informed
We are committed to keeping our community informed throughout this process. Check back for regular updates on the project’s progress and opportunities for community involvement. If you have specific questions or feedback, please feel free to email us at info@rabbittransit.org.