News & Events: Press Releases
March 3, 2008
BAY TOWN TROLLEY ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO RIDE LATE IN ’08
Press Conference Marks Kick-Off for Service Extension
Media Contact: Allison Fogt
850-878-5531 x223
afogt@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - Bay Town Trolley representatives met alongside Bay County elected officials today to encourage riders to “Ride Late in ’08.” The announcement serves as the official kick-off to Bay Town Trolley’s extended service, which goes into effect today. With this extension, Bay Town Trolley will operate between the hours of 6 a.m. and 8 p.m., a two-hour evening extension from previous operation times.
This comes at a time when Bay Town Trolley’s ridership is at an all time high. Starting the year off right, January figures showed a 14 percent increase to 2007 year-end totals. February ridership is likely to follow this trend, while 2008 ridership as a whole is expected to increase dramatically as a direct result to the extended hours.
“The Transportation Planning Organization appreciates the elected officials’ financial commitment to support Bay Town Trolley during their growth period,” said Walter Kelley, chairman of the Transportation Planning Organization and Lynn Haven mayor. “Time and time again the trolley riders have requested extended hours. It’s our pleasure to finally fulfill our obligation and add value to the trolley so that it can better meet the needs of all Bay County residents. “
The extended service hours will allow riders to utilize Bay Town Trolley as a more reliable mode of transportation. Many use the trolley as a viable method for running errands and getting to medical appointments, but now it also accommodates riders on their evening commute. Ultimately riders can now experience benefits of the trolley 14 hours a day, using it as a means to get to and from school and work, and/or leisure activities, increasing their overall independence.
“With the service ending at 6 p.m., I wasn’t able to attend late classes or receive job training that could help me in the future,” said Lisa Brock, a long-time trolley rider. “But with the extended hours I’ll be able to be more independent; it gives me back my freedom.”
Making the extended service a reality, the local municipalities within Bay Town Trolley’s service area contributed close to $90,000, based on the amount of service in each area. In addition, the Florida Department of Transportation in Chipley agreed to contribute $108,000 in matching grant funds. With the commitment of the local officials comes the possibility of additional state and federal assistance becoming available to the trolley.
“The trolley has continued to provide dependable transportation to a growing number of riders,” said Beth Coulliette, Bay Town Trolley’s executive director. “With the help of our local elected officials, these extended hours will help connect riders and impact lives.”
Trolley representatives will publicize the “Ride Late in ‘08” campaign all year. In fact, residents are invited to come celebrate with the trolley on Friday, March 7, 2008 at this month’s “Friday Fest,” from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Trolley drivers are selling raffle tickets all week for the grand prize to be awarded during the fest.
Bay Town Trolley is an award-winning transit system that serves Bay County, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. For more information about Trolley routes call (850) 769-0557 or visit www.baytowntrolley.org. All Bay Town Trolleys are equipped with bicycle racks and wheelchair lifts.
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