SacRT Begins Development of Mobility Hubs

The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), CA, has launched a new project aimed at enhancing connectivity and sustainability. In partnership with the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (Sac Metro Air District) and Sacramento Clean Cities Coalition (Clean Cities), SacRT is developing Mobility Hubs at three of its light rail stations.

“We are excited to embark on this journey toward creating Mobility Hubs that will serve as vibrant community centers, fostering sustainable transportation options and connectivity within our region,” said Henry Li, SacRT general manager/CEO. “Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, SacRT is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents while leading the charge towards a greener, more equitable future.”

The Mobility Hubs will serve as vital community hubs, strategically located within disadvantaged neighborhoods, and will offer a multitude of transportation options aimed at reducing reliance on gas-powered and single-occupancy vehicles. Among the amenities provided at the hubs are EV carshare, bike and scooter share services, EV charging stations, carpool/vanpool connections, and electric microtransit shuttles. Marconi/Arcade Station, Globe Station, and La Valentina/Alkali Flat Station have been selected as the first locations.

The initiative has been made possible through $1.7 million in federal funding from the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. Additionally, the Sac Metro Air District may contribute up to $3 million to further bolster the benefits and amenities of the hubs, including landscaping, lighting, and other infrastructure improvements. The California Air Resources Board’s Sustainable Transportation Equity Program granted $500,000 for the creation of a Mobility Hub Implementation Plan, which will be led by Civic Thread.

“A disproportionate number of BIPOC and low-income communities across the region lack equitable access to transportation options that are affordable, sustainable, and connect to essential destinations such as grocery stores, schools, healthcare and employment centers,” said Kiara Reed, executive director of Civic Thread. “By centering community voices in the identification of mobility hubs and resulting amenities, we have a real opportunity to be intentional about health equity and advancing mobility options that meet the needs of communities who bear a disproportionate burden of transportation inequity.”

This pilot project represents the first phase of a larger mobility initiative led by the Sac Metro Air District, aiming to introduce up to 52 Mobility Hubs across the Sacramento region. Over a two-year period, SacRT will work on collaborating with EV vendors, acquiring electric shuttles, and engaging in extensive community outreach to gather input on the features and services desired at each hub. The project is anticipated to kick-off in the summer or fall of 2024.