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Mountain Climber Transit reports safety reviews, ridership rebound and priorities for intercity service
Summary
Mountain Climber director described recent rider falls and consequent safety training, a ridership rebound after holiday declines, progress toward a transportation coordination plan and priorities including intercity commuter options, better outreach and extended hours in some communities.
Elizabeth Wood, director of Mountain Climber Transit, told commissioners the system had several recent incidents involving riders falling while boarding or exiting buses. The agency reviewed these incidents during January all-staff meetings, used the cases for training on loading/unloading procedures, and reiterated policy that drivers should not physically lift riders; dispatch and emergency medical services should be called when riders cannot safely stand.
Wood said Marsh McLennan (the county’s insurance/risk management partner) has been providing support and positive feedback on safety improvements. She also described winter operations measures such as ice buckets and sand for drivers, and ongoing staff training on incident reporting.
On ridership, Wood said December and January showed recovery after a November dip that coincided with three holidays; she provided charts comparing FY2022 (zero fare), FY2023 (zero fare), FY2024 (one-dollar fare) and FY2025 (to date) to show trends and differences in trip composition for seniors, people with disabilities and general riders. She emphasized equity and restoring reliable service for seniors and riders with disabilities.
Wood reported progress on a transportation coordination plan (going to a Transportation Advisory Committee vote the afternoon of the meeting, then to the commissioners next week) and public meetings that highlighted interest in intercity commuter options, better marketing and extended hours in Whitefish and Columbia Falls to serve workers. She said the transit system is fully staffed and has turned a recently hired part-time driver into a full-time position following a retirement.
Operational notes included ongoing grant applications and an upcoming April Transportation Advisory Committee meeting. Commissioners asked questions about safety procedures and staffing; Wood answered that drivers are trained and Marsh McLennan has been a helpful resource.
