The CSPDC is pleased to present the 2023 Annual Report for the Afton Express Commuter Bus Service. The Afton Express launched in September 2021 and has grown each year since. With just over two years of operations under our belt, the Afton Express has become a fixture in the Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro community – connecting commuters from their homes in the Valley to jobs, healthcare, shopping, and other opportunities in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
In 2023, the Afton Express provided 16,482 passenger trips between the Shenandoah Valley and the Charlottesville Metropolitan region – a nearly 60% increase from 2022. The report provides a look at some of the highlights of the year, such as the expanded schedule implemented in February 2023. Performance metrics, such as ridership by month, stops, and individual trips are also included.
A new feature in this year’s report looks at the impact of the Afton Express. Using data collected through our RideShare Commuter Assistance Program, we can quantify the impact of the service by looking at the reduction of single-occupancy vehicle trips, the amount of money saved by commuters, and emissions prevented. Of course, this analysis uses data collected from just a portion of our riders, so the actual impact is potentially even more significant.
When measuring our performance for the past year, the most important metric is how well are we meeting the needs of our riders. By surveying riders, we gain important insight into the passenger experience. Feedback from passengers plays an important role in the planning of future service enhancements. Responses to a rider survey helped us create a passenger profile. This information and more can be found in the report.
The Annual Report may be viewed online HERE.
The CSPDC would like to thank our partners, without whom the Afton Express would not be possible.