Council discusses alternatives to SPAN transit after residents report long waits and high per‑ride costs

Councilors discussed local public‑transportation challenges after residents reported long waits and high per‑ride costs for SPAN, the city’s current transit provider.

Councilmember Enzweiler opened the item, saying a resident reported a two‑hour trip from Evergreen Apartments to the senior center during a single one‑way trip and noting the city paid for 44 trips in a month at a per‑trip charge of $21.26. "We paid for a 44 trips last month alone at $21.26 per [ride], so that's what, 21 and 21 is $42.43 dollars, to get back and forth to the senior center," Enzweiler said, urging staff to explore faster, more convenient options.

Staff and councilors discussed possible alternatives: operating a city shuttle (part‑time drivers and city vehicles), contracting other providers, subsidizing handicap‑capable ride‑hail services, and partnering with local nonprofits that already operate large vehicles. Staff cautioned that running a city service could require additional drivers, vehicles and insurance and might not be cheaper once labor and vehicle replacement costs are included.

Council members emphasized service reliability for seniors and riders with mobility limitations. One councilmember noted that some riders cannot use SPAN because it will not operate outside Denton County or cannot accommodate certain disabilities; another noted Parks & Recreation has vehicles (including lift‑equipped vans) that might help if schedules can be coordinated.

Council directed staff to research alternatives and return with operational and budget estimates. Suggestions to evaluate included: scheduled shuttle trips to the senior center, targeted routes that reduce shared‑ride stops, partnerships with local nonprofits or apartment providers, and subsidized ride‑hail for wheelchair‑accessible trips. No vote was taken; staff will return with cost/scheduling options.