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County to subsidize rides for some Bellefonte residents after Bellhop contract ends
Summary
Centre County Transportation staff said the county will contract to provide trips for Bellefonte residents previously served by a local service; Bellefonte Borough will subsidize trips for people who lack other funding sources, and the county said it can accommodate the demand without adding vehicles immediately.
County transportation officials said they will help fill gaps after Bellefonte’s Bellhop ride service contract ends June 30 by providing trips for residents without other funding sources and contracting with the borough for subsidy support.
David Lomison explained that the borough will use funds earmarked for CATA (or similar local ride programs) to subsidize rides for residents ages 18–59 who do not otherwise qualify for transportation funding. County staff said the service will cover trips to work, medical appointments and groceries when other funding is not available.
Why it matters: staff said the need is targeted and the impact on the county’s existing service is expected to be minimal based on referral data from partners. If demand increased significantly, staff said the county would consider adding personnel or equipment; for now, the county reported it has received four buses in the last six months and is pursuing additional grant funding for vehicles.
Commissioners and transportation staff said the program may start a few weeks before the Bellhop contract ends to test routing and demand; staff said they will bill the borough or another contracting entity for trips.
Ending: Transportation staff will coordinate with Bellefonte Borough on subsidy details and monitor demand to determine whether staffing or equipment changes are needed.
