The MTS Planning and Scheduling Department is responsible for the service planning, scheduling, and performance monitoring of all MTS transit services.  Specific duties include:

• Conduct studies and implement initiatives to improve the quality, competitiveness, integration, and sustainability of transit services within the MTS service area;
• Develop recommendations for service changes based on customer and employee feedback, changes in travel demand, ridership, efficiency, and productivity;
• Coordinates activities in support of service changes;
• Work with SANDAG, NCTD, and Caltrans on planning and implementing regional transportation initiatives, including I-15 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), South Bay BRT, El Cajon Showcase Project, the Regional Transportation Plan, and the Regional Coordinated Public Transit – Human Services Transportation Plan;
• Serve as agency liaisons to communities, council districts, local jurisdictions, and other authorities within the MTS service area;
• Evaluate impact of changes to fare policy and structure on ridership and revenue.

• Define service levels and develop schedules for all fixed route bus and trolley operations;
• Ensure that service levels do not exceed budgeted resources, including miles, hours, and peak vehicles;
• Optimize use of budgeted resources;
• Develop runcuts for MTS Bus in house operations that comply with all work rules defined under applicable union contracts.
• Support operations department on personnel matters related to bus scheduling.

• Serve as agency clearinghouse for operating data;
• Establish service monitoring process, performance indicators, and targets;
• Monitor ridership, running time, and on time performance of bus and trolley services;
• Responsible for external reporting of data in support of local, state and federal programs;
• Conduct Environmental Justice (Title VI) evaluation as required.

MTS typically changes its services three times per year—in January, June, and September.  For each service change, MTS will post a notice called a “Take One” on all of its buses and trolleys with modified service information.  MTS will also post the changes, including new maps and new schedules, to the MTS website so that you may review the changes and plan your trips in advance.  In addition, the Regional Transit Information office can help you plan a trip with the new schedules by calling them at 5-1-1 or 619-233-3004. 

MTS works with SANDAG, Caltrans, and other local agencies to plan, develop, and operate new transportation projects.  We have provided links to some of the major projects we are working on today.

2030 Regional Transportation Plan

I-805/I-5 South Corridor Study

I-15 Managed Lanes Project

South Bay Bus Rapid Transit

La Jolla/UTC Super Loop

Mid-Coast Trolley Extension

Regional Transit Fare Ordinance

Buses on Shoulders Demonstration Project

Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP)

Downtown Comprehensive Transit Study

Transportation Planning for Persons with Disabilities