Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Smart Transit tells Waseca County it delivered about 11,000 rides this year and will add a fourth bus
Summary
Smart Transit operations manager Don White told the Waseca County Board the service provided roughly 11,000 rides through September, serves schoolchildren and residents with mobility challenges, and plans a fourth bus to expand coverage, including a clinic–Albert Lea shuttle.
Don White, operations manager for Smart Transit, told the Waseca County Board of Commissioners that Smart Transit has operated in the region for 11 years and delivered “approximately 11,000 rides” through September as part of a mix of fixed-route and demand-response services. He said Smart Transit runs a fixed route Monday–Friday from about 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and operates demand-response buses from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The presentation highlighted service to school-age passengers (the agency serves about 35 students), dedicated service for riders with mobility limitations, and driver training to assist riders who use walkers or wheelchairs. Don White offered repeated customer examples — including riders who rely on Smart Transit for work, school and medical appointments — to illustrate local demand.
Transit manager Kurt Kochira (identified in the presentation) said the agency is partnering with Mayo Clinic to provide a free shuttle from Albert Lea for same-day visits and that Smart Transit has been working with MnDOT as its grantor. He noted rising capital and operating costs and said bus prices and maintenance have increased substantially in recent years. He also confirmed the $30 unlimited-pass product is sold on a calendar-month basis.
Commissioners asked whether Smart Transit could resume occasional runs to Mankato. Staff said they track denied ride requests and would consider restoring or scheduling occasional intercity “circle runs” if sufficient demand returns. Smart Transit also confirmed it receives a county fuel discount where available and uses procurement in other counties.
The board heard the update without taking formal action. The presentation closed with the agency saying the planned fourth bus should begin mid-month and would allow expanded afternoon coverage and a clinic–Albert Lea shuttle.
The board did not adopt new policy or funding commitments at the meeting; staff said Smart Transit will continue to monitor demand and report back.
