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Oxford council asks Butler County RTA to study expanded seasonal bus route to improve access to aquatic center and senior housing
Summary
Council approved a resolution to send a letter to Butler County Regional Transit Authority requesting study of a seasonal route to the community park, aquatic center and Knowles of Oxford senior community; staff warned any expanded route could cost the city about $50,000 annually.
Oxford City Council voted to send a letter to the Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) asking the agency to consider an expanded seasonal bus route that would serve the community park and aquatic center, the Knowles of Oxford senior community and the Locust Street business corridor.
The Recreation Board recommended the request after finding access to the aquatic center and park is difficult for residents without motor vehicles, particularly Oxford’s largest senior neighborhood, the Knowles of Oxford. The council’s action formally forwards the Recreation Board’s recommendation to BCRTA for consideration.
A staff representative said the resolution’s intent is limited to sending the letter and does not commit the city to funding a route. “Any expanded route would have a fiscal cost to the City of Oxford, upwards of $50,000,” the staff report said, noting additional budget discussions would be required if BCRTA recommends implementation.
The Recreation Board’s recommendation and council discussion emphasized equity and mobility for seniors, families and teens. In remarks to council, a recreation representative said, “It’s about opportunity. It’s about equity. It’s about making sure that everyone in Oxford is a full participant in community life,” and argued that a seasonal route could close gaps in service west of McGuffey Avenue.
Council members supported sending the letter as a first step, saying it would allow the city to gauge BCRTA’s response and, if warranted, pilot a one‑year trial and evaluate ridership before committing funds. Options for potential city contribution discussed included Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding or other locally allocated funds; a council member noted the city has in the past provided modest one‑time support to BCRTA for specific needs.
The resolution passed on a voice vote with no public opposition recorded. Council members said they expect BCRTA to respond with feasibility and cost options and that further council action would be required before any service change or city subsidy takes effect.
