In a recent survey, Metro recently asked patrons what they would like to see in an improved Union Station. Among the upgrades requested:

Easier access to surrounding neighborhoods

Better connections between transportation services

More options for dining and shopping

Enhanced passenger information & help guides

Additional or improved signage

Better bicycle access and parking

Additional transportation options

Metro Research & Development worked with the Union Station Master Plan team to conduct the survey of Union Station visitors. The survey collected data on how people are currently using the station, as well as which new amenities are most desired in and around the new station. Metro purchased Union Station in 2011 and the Master Plan will create a blueprint on how to upgrade the station and develop the areas around it while, of course, preserving the famous structure.

The survey was conducted online from January 28 to February 6 and with paper surveys that were distributed in and around Union Station on Jan. 31. All told, 329 paper surveys and 1,735 online surveys were collected.

When looking at the results, keep in mind that web respondents tended to be less frequent users of the station (not regular-commuters), while paper survey respondents were more likely to use the station on a daily or weekly basis (regular commuters).

We asked patrons how they arrived at Union Station and how they left to reach their destination. Online survey respondents were more likely to be Metro Rail riders, and less likely to walk, bike or take Amtrak or Metrolink.

Presently, most people who frequently use Union Station are currently doing so only for transportation. However, others are also taking advantage of shopping, dining and recreational activities. A third of users are coming to the station for recreation and entertainment, and a quarter are using it for dining and shopping.

Out of 12 suggested improvements, seven stood out as being more desired than the others:

Easier access to surrounding neighborhoods

Better connections between transportation services

More options for dining and shopping

Enhanced passenger information & help guides

Additional or improved signage

Better bicycle access and parking

Additional transportation options

The other suggested improvements were:

More space to circulate through the station

More public art and activities on station property

More waiting areas and seating

Increased security

Additional parking (tip: there is usually space on level four of the parking garage).

More graphics after the jump — keep reading please!

An analysis of survey respondents by zip code shows an interesting pattern. Most patrons actually live close to the station, but significant numbers of respondents were from more distant areas, likely due to the farther reach of services like Metrolink.

Thank you to all who participated in the survey online or in the station! Your input has helped to give us a better idea of what you would like to see at Union Station, and will help team move forward with developing plans for the station.

For more information on the Union Station Master Plan project and to keep apprised of upcoming meetings, check our website and our facebook page for details.

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