Friends:
As we welcome a new season, we are grateful for the strong foundation we have to operate from our outstanding workforce continues to deliver high-quality service to our community as we move forward with excitement and a full plate of activities.
We are excited welcome CDPHP Cycle! back for its eighth season. Our surprise launch on March 29 marks the earliest we have ever launched Cycle! During season eight, customers will have access to more than 600 bikes throughout the region, including 200 more e-bikes. More than 10 new stations are available for customers to rent a bike from, making easier than ever to join the Cycle! fun!
I am thrilled to report that CDTA ridership totals continue to rebound and are now back to 100% pre-pandemic levels. This recovery is fueled by an efficient route at work and quality partnerships throughout the community. Most of our growth is on BRT and trunk routes, which are the foundation of our system. We are also proud of our Universal Access program which now include nearly 50 arrangements with colleges, businesses and employers in the Capita Region.
Our newest service, FLEX+ is off to a strong start. The service provides a convenient and cost-effective way for customers to travel to and from the Joseph L. Bruno Rail Station and Downtown Albany. The Joseph L. Bruno Rail Station is one of the busiest in the nation, and now customers will have an efficient option to get to downtown Albany. Many train riders are headed to the state capitol to conduct business or to visit the many locations in and around the city of Albany. This direct and technology-driven service will be perfect for this market.
We are happy to have Warren County part of our growing service network. CDTA, and Greater Glens Falls Transit became one on January 1, 2024. This merger provided Warren County residence with access to our menu of mobility services. Combining the resources of CDTA and GGFT has allowed for innovative opportunities, economic development, and better connections between Albany, Saratoga, Glens Falls, and Lake George. The addition of Warren County makes it the sixth county to join the Authority.
Our BRT service continues to connect the Capital Region in more ways than ever before and fuel a robust ridership return. We completed our vision of 40 miles of Bus Rapid Transit at the end of 2023. The Purple Line opened on November 5, running along the Washington and Western Avenue corridors and connecting customers with downtown Albany, Harriman Campus, University at Albany, and Crossgates Mall in Guilderland. This is our third BRT in the system.
As always, our community plays a big role in making CDTA successful thank you to our outstanding Board of Directors our dedicated employees, supportive retirees, loyal customers, and an engaged community for helping CDTA to be successful. We cannot do it without you.
Carm Basile
Chief Executive Officer