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Madison Metro service begins in Monona; riders and city officials report strong early use
Summary
Madison Metro began serving Monona on March 3. City officials and riders reported early uptake, and city staff said paratransit enrollment had 30 seniors registered as of the prior week. Officials celebrated the launch with outreach events at the high school and at the new bus stop near the library.
Madison Metro began regular service in Monona on the morning of March 3, and city officials reported robust early usage and community interest.
Alder Moore and other council members described meeting the first buses and speaking with riders. Moore said social posts and photos showed many riders reporting quick downtown trips, and a resident at a community gathering praised the subsidy the University of Wisconsin provides to employees that reduces annual transit costs substantially. City staff reported 30 seniors had enrolled in paratransit as of the end of last week and that Metro will be at the high school to register students for fare cards.
City leaders described early mornings when the first bus arrived at 6:11 a.m. near the library and said broadcast media covered the launch. Officials said they had provided thank-you gifts to outgoing local drivers and that Madison Metro staff attended to assist the transition.
Discussion vs. decision: this item was reported during committee and staff reports; no council action was required. City leaders said they will continue outreach and rider-registration events.
