News & Events: Press Releases
March 3, 2008
TROLLEY BREAKS RIDERSHIP RECORDS ONCE AGAIN
2007 Year-End Figures Show that Bay County Community is Hopping Aboard
Media Contact: Allison Fogt
850-878-5531 x223
afogt@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - Year-end data has been compiled and Bay Town Trolley representatives proudly announce 2007 ridership numbers reached a record-breaking 371,007. With over a quarter million riders, these statistics reflect a 20 percent increased from the total number of passengers at this time last year.
With the number of Bay County public transit users continuing to grow each year, local governments have agreed to contribute $87,831 for this extended service on weeknights. Bay Town Trolley’s ridership growth has caught the attention of state transportation officials and this local contribution opens the door to additional state and federal assistance, meaning that weekend service may be a reality in the near future. Officials at FDOT in Chipley recently agreed to contribute $108,000 in matching grant funds to support this extended service and are working hard to secure more matching funds for the next three years.
“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.”
Throughout the year, the system will focus on 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.
“Our elected officials know that the trolley 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.”
Scheduled service extensions will take effect March 3, 2008. The additional hours mean the trolley will run Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 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.
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