The Gastonia City Council convened to discuss the upcoming launch of the Go Gastonia micro transit system, set to officially begin on July 1st. Randy Gates, the Director of Transportation, presented an overview of the new service, which aims to address the limitations of the current fixed route system that covers only 22 square miles of the city.

The Go Gastonia initiative will expand service coverage to nearly 50 square miles, allowing residents to travel anywhere within city limits. The new micro transit system will utilize smaller, more efficient vehicles, reducing wait times and improving accessibility. Riders will be able to book rides through a mobile app, website, or call center, with the first ten rides offered for free as an introductory promotion to encourage usage.

Gates highlighted the challenges faced by the existing transit system, including an aging fleet, limited service areas, and long wait times. The average number of passengers per vehicle hour is currently low, prompting the need for a more flexible and responsive transit solution. The micro transit model has been successfully implemented in other communities, and Gastonia aims to replicate this success.

The council discussed various aspects of the service, including operational hours, fare structures, and accessibility for disabled riders. Regular fares will be set at $2 per ride, with reduced rates for seniors and disabled individuals. The service will maintain its existing ADA paratransit options for those requiring additional assistance.

Community outreach efforts are underway to inform residents about the new service, with staff members scheduled to ride buses and engage with the public. The council emphasized the importance of reaching those who may not have access to social media or traditional news outlets, particularly residents in apartment complexes.

A ribbon-cutting event is planned for June 29th at the Bradley Transit Station, marking the final preparations before the launch. The council expressed optimism about the potential impact of Go Gastonia on public transportation in the city, aiming to provide a more efficient and user-friendly transit experience for all residents.