Lawton Area Transit System unveils eight new fixed bus routes for June rollout

In a pivotal meeting held at City Hall, the Lawton City Council engaged in a comprehensive discussion about the upcoming changes to the Lawton Area Transit System's fixed routes, set to take effect in June. The presentation, led by transit officials, highlighted the results of extensive public feedback gathered over the past two years, which played a crucial role in shaping the new route structure.

The proposed changes aim to enhance accessibility and safety by prioritizing major commercial areas, such as Walmart and downtown, while reducing the number of routes from nine to eight. This strategic shift is designed to improve service efficiency and ensure that federal and local funding is utilized effectively. The new routes will focus on main arterial roads, addressing safety concerns associated with navigating through residential neighborhoods.

Tony Hansel, the operations director, elaborated on the specifics of the new routes, which will be clearly marked by numbers and colors for easy identification. The routes are designed to facilitate connections to key locations, including schools, medical facilities, and shopping centers, thereby supporting economic development and community needs.

One notable enhancement is the introduction of a peak service for the East route, which will now operate every 30 minutes instead of hourly, significantly reducing wait times for riders. Additionally, the new routes will include stops at previously unserviced areas, such as the airport and new neighborhoods, expanding the transit system's reach.

The council's discussions also touched on the importance of integrating public input into the transit planning process, ensuring that the new system aligns with the community's needs. As the city prepares for these changes, officials expressed optimism about the potential for improved public transportation and its positive impact on residents' daily lives.

With the new routes set to roll out in just a few months, the Lawton Area Transit System is poised to offer a more efficient and user-friendly service, reflecting the community's voice and enhancing connectivity throughout the city.