MTA Holds Meeting About Plans to Reduce Service [Video]

The Flint Mass Transportation Authority held the first of two public meetings on Tuesday night in which they outlined plans to reduce service this summer.

According to ABC 12, from June 24 through September 1, fixed route bus service would be reduced to once an hour from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Only one bus an hour would be available for each route. Also beginning June 24 and running through October 1, fixed bus service would end at 6:30 p.m.

The MTA told those in attendance that the cutbacks are needed due to funding from property taxes falling and ridership being down. Fuel prices and a harsh winter which created $400,000 in unexpected expenses also contributed.

In August, Genesee County voters will decide on a millage renewal for the MTA. Ed Benning, General Manager for the MTA, says the renewal is very important to them though it provides less money than in 2007. Benning said they "need to take a look at going out and bringing in some additional funds in the form of a new millage."

The MTA Board of Directors is expected to decide on the proposed changes at its meeting this Thursday (5/29) at 8 a.m.

ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI