San Joaquin County city managers decry RTD expansion plans as looming transit disaster

San Joaquin County city managers are raising alarms over the Regional Transit District's (RTD) plans to expand intercity bus service, citing potential financial burdens on taxpayers. They argue that the expansion comes at a time when ridership has not recovered from pandemic lows, leading them to label the situation a looming "transit disaster. " In their July 22 letter, the managers, including Stockton's interim city manager, called for more collaboration with RTD to devise cost-effective transportation options. RTD officials, surprised by the backlash, noted that service changes had been discussed openly in committees. The city managers seek detailed data on ridership, operational costs, and revenue service hours to evaluate the proposed expansions.

They emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in public spending. The managers also reference a failed 2019 collaborative transit plan, which aimed to provide intercity service without overburdening any operator. Their overarching goal remains to ensure that residents receive maximum service for their tax dollars.