How We Got Here
A phased approach to building upon Monadnock Region’s existing transportation options
The NextGen Transit Project began in 2022, when SWRPC published the Microtransit Feasibility and Fixed Route Transit Service Plan Design Assistance Study. The study was conducted by transit consultant, Via, on behalf of SWRPC, in partnership with Home Healthcare, Hospice, and Community Services (HCS) and the Monadnock Regional Coordinating Council (MRCC). The purpose was to examine gaps in service and opportunities to improve transit service throughout the Monadnock Region. The project benefited from a robust public outreach process that including public in-person and virtual meetings. Based on feedback from an advisory task force and the general public, the study recommends phasing in updated and new transit services over time with starting phase that involves a Greater Keene Transit Service and a regionwide Critical Access to Care service.
In 2024, SWRPC launched a follow-up phase to determine how best to implement the NextGen Project. Important components of that effort involved researching transit operating models and different types of managing entities to support a more innovative, coordinated and resilient transportation system for Greater Keene and other parts of Southwest New Hampshire. This effort involved oversight from a regional stakeholder group to develop prioritized goals to create a foundation for success for the NextGen Project. For instance, it was determined that governance of the entity should be actively coordinating with other existing transportation services and that there should be expanded stakeholder community oversight over the developing system.
Today the NextGen project is in its third phase, which involves seeking out transit vendors to provide these services and will involve releasing to Request for Qualifications statements to engage with interested transit providers.
“Next Generation” Transit Project Implementation Plan 
SWRPC Microtransit Feasibility and Fixed Route Transit Service Plan Design Assistance Study