Jonesboro transit director reports 3,700 rides since new system rollout, shelter deliveries expected in December

Director Lee Wells presented an update on Jonesboro’s JET public transit program, saying the system has recorded “just over, 3,700” riders since the October rollout of a new 'Streets' software platform and that staff expect data quality to improve as reporting bugs are resolved.

Wells described new onboard passenger reader boards that announce stops both visually and audibly and said similar displays are planned for shelters being procured through a separate project. He said the shelter contractor is under contract and that physical shelter deliveries are estimated for early December, weather permitting.

Wells also said paratransit ridership has increased to nearly 250 active riders after recent recertifications. He noted some metrics are currently understated while the system stabilizes and said staff will provide more detailed ridership breakdowns (for example students vs. general public, on- vs. off-campus boarding) as the software matures.

On security and fare collection, Wells said each vehicle has three or more high-resolution cameras and that recorded video is accessible to his team and Jonesboro Police Department. He said fare payment options remain in early-stage development, that buses currently accept cash only (and drivers do not provide change), and that staff are exploring alternatives including prepaid cards and automated options.

Council members requested more granular data before required state reporting; Wells said staff will continue refining the data and share updated reports as they become available.