Bay Town Trolley Receives Funding For Extended Service
Two-Hour Extension Will Allow Trolley Customers to “Ride Late in 2008”
January 22, 2008
Panama City, Fla. – As we move into 2008, Bay Town Trolley representatives are ecstatic to announce that local funding has been secured for a two-hour evening service extension. Expected to take effect March 3, 2008, additional hours mean the trolley will run Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
With the number of Bay County public transit users continuing to grow each month, local constituents have agreed to budget $84,888 for this extended service on weeknights. Prior to this local funding signoff, Bay Town Trolley was the only system in Florida that received no local assistance.
“This local funding, coupled with our growing ridership numbers, is a strong indication that the community truly understands and embraces the benefits of public transportation,” said Beth Coulliette, executive director of Bay Town Trolley. “With these increased hours, we hope to continue serving the needs of Bay County residents and visitors.”
In 2007 the trolley reached its highest ridership to date. December 2007 statistics show that 23,525 customers boarded the trolley, bringing year-end ridership to 371,007. This reflects a 20 percent increase from the total number of passengers at this time last year.
“These local governments know that trolley funding is vital to the community,” said Rob Mahan, regional planner for West Florida Regional Planning Council. “Ultimately, this service enhancement will not only improve the lives of our riders but contribute to the overall prosperity of the community.”
Throughout the year, the system will focus in a fresh initiative – “Ride Late in 2008.” The effort will work to educate current and potential riders about the two-hour extension while keeping elected officials updated regarding trolley progress and growth. With this service extension, Bay Town Trolley will look to hire additional drivers and increase fares to offset higher fuel costs and longer run times.
Bay Town Trolley is an award-winning transit system that serves the growing needs of Bay County, Monday through Friday, with hundreds of stops daily. For more information about Trolley routes and service call (850) 769-0557 or visit www.BayTownTrolley.org. Bay Town Trolleys are equipped with bicycle racks and wheelchair lifts.
