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"November 2023"



North Parcel Improvement Project Begins Soon at OTC

Bus at OTC

Starting Monday, Nov. 6, Intercity Transit's contractor will begin improvements at the Olympia Transit Center (OTC). The North Site Improvement Project is the final phase of planned enhancements for the transit center.

The project will improve pedestrian safety and accessibility, boarding accessibility, and implement solutions to address mobility needs at OTC. Planned improvements include:


* Replacing the curb and sidewalk.
* Upgrading ramps to be ADA-compliant.
* Replacing red pavers with concrete at the bus loading platform and internal pedestrian crossings.
* Refreshing pavement markings.

During construction, bus bays will be temporarily relocated in three phases. Please pay attention to all rider alerts and signage at the transit center to ensure you're getting on the correct bus. Look for more information posted on our website, social media and by signing up to receive information from us via text message or email at intercitytransit.com/subscribe [ [link removed] ] as we have more details to share.



Holiday Service Reminders

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With the holiday season approaching, here are a few reminders to keep in mind while making your travel plans:


* *Veterans Day ? Saturday, Nov. 11:* All services operate on regular schedules.
* *Thanksgiving ? Thursday, Nov. 23:* We will be closed on the holiday. Local and Express bus service, Dial-A-Lift and Village Vans will not operate.

Visit intercitytransit.com/news [ [link removed] ] for more information as we get closer to the holidays. Please contact Customer Service at 360-786-1881 for questions or for service information.



Prepare for Winter Weather

Bus in snow

Remember this winter that our buses run in bad weather. Leave the driving to us and take comfort knowing that we'll get you there safely!

Prepare now by becoming familiar with our standard snow detours at intercitytransit.com/bus/routes/snow-detours [ [link removed] ].

If roads are snowy or icy, check for service information before you leave home.

You can also sign up to receive winter weather alerts via text message or email. Sign up at intercitytransit.com/subscribe [ [link removed] ]. To see if buses are delayed in real-time, download the myStop app [ [link removed] ] in your Google Play or App store.

More information about preparing for winter weather will be in the December Rider News.



Come See Us at Holiday Events

Lighted Bus

Join us at local family-friendly holiday events this season! We will be participating in several holiday themed events including the Christmas in the Park Parade, a tree lighting and lighted vehicle parade.

*Event and Parade Details*


* *Christmas in the Park Parade, Yelm [ [link removed] ] ?* Saturday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. in downtown Yelm.
* *Tree Lighting Festival, Tumwater [ [link removed] ] ?* Saturday, Dec. 2 from 1 - 5:30 p.m. at Tumwater City Hall, 555 Israel Rd. SW.
* *Lighted Parade, Lacey [ [link removed] ] ?* Monday, Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Begins at the intersection of 7th Ave. SE and Sleater-Kinney Rd. SE.


Public Comment Invited on 2024 Draft Budget and Strategic Plan

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Intercity Transit seeks your input on our 2024 draft Budget and Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan defines levels and types of public transportation services offered over the next six years to determine the amount and sources of revenue to finance the services.

The 2024-2029 Strategic Plan represents the continuation of our commitments created from a multi-year short- and long-range planning process.

The draft Budget and Strategic Plan are available for your review and comment by:


* Visiting intercitytransit.com/about-us/publications [ [link removed] ].
* Requesting a printed copy by visiting Customer Service at the Olympia Transit Center.
* Calling 360-786-8585.

Comments can be provided by:


* Calling 360-705-5852.
* Emailing [email protected].
* By mail: Intercity Transit, P.O. Box 659, Olympia, WA 98507.
* Attending the public hearing on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 p.m., either virtually or in-person at our Administration and Operations Facility located at 510 Pattison St. SE in Olympia.

Comments must be received by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 15 to be considered.



"Be Safe. Be Seen." This Season

Rider with reflector at bus stop

The season's short, wet days make pedestrians and bicyclists less visible. Our drivers make every effort to watch for riders waiting at unlit bus stops, but we need your help!

Help ensure your safety by:


* *Wearing bright-colored or reflective clothing.* Drivers can see you 500 feet away when you wear reflective clothing compared to just 55 feet when wearing dark colors.
* *Adding some shine.* Put reflectors on your shoes, backpack, purse, bicycle spokes, jacket sleeves, or pant legs. Reflectors in a visible location will help drivers see you in the dark.
* *Lighting yourself up.* Carry a flashlight, flashing safety strobe, or use your cell phone. Help drivers see you by standing up, moving or waving as the bus approaches your stop.

Remember these tips when you're riding the bus or visit intercitytransit.com/besafe [ [link removed] ] so you are sure to "Be Safe. Be Seen." this season.



Look for Jingle Buses on a Route Near You
Jingle Bus at Stop

The Intercity Transit Jingle Buses will be coming to a route near you later this month! We are excited to announce that there will be two festively decorated buses and a Dial-A-Lift van again this year to spread holiday cheer throughout the community.

The Jingle Buses will travel on different local routes each day through the end of December.

Have a safe and wonderful holiday season!





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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Intercity Transit ? 222 State Avenue ? Olympia, WA 98501 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]