The future of bus routes in Kittanning is now secure.
Council voted 6-0 Monday in favor of providing $13,200 to Town and Country Transit, reversing a decision last month to forego the annual contribution. The move left supporters questioning whether fixed bus routes would stay in Kittanning.
“We were a little surprised after there were so many years of (Kittanning) funding service,” TACT General Manager Patty Lynn Baker said. “I think a lot of people think the buses ride around empty all the time.”
Kittanning's funding, the largest of the seven community contributions made each year to TACT, is part of a $40,000 contribution that leverages about $580,000 in state funding each year. TACT offers both fixed ride bus routes for the public and a shared ride program for those who qualify, like seniors and the disabled.
The fixed bus route service makes more than 350 scheduled stops in Kittanning and an average of 3,700 monthly trips, according to TACT data.
“It's important for the people of Kittanning to have public transportation,” said Baker. “Our terminal is here and every route we do starts and stops here in Kittanning.”
Some officials opposing the annual funding last month questioned whether Kittanning's contribution amount was fair. Other member communities contribute anywhere from about $1,000 to Kittanning's $12,000, according to Baker. The funding breakdown is based on population. TACT members include West Kittanning, Applewold, East Franklin, Manor, Manorville and Ford City. Armstrong County also gives $7,500 to the bus service.
Council members who felt there were too few people riding the buses that run through Kittanning said they changed their minds Monday after Baker presented them with ridership data.
“I'm glad she came to explain it to us,” said Councilwoman Joie Pryde. “I am really surprised that there is such ridership.”
Julie E. Martin is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. She can be reached at 724-543-1303, ext. 1315 or jmartin@tribweb.com.
