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Council marks Transit Equity Day; DOT officials cite free-bus ridership gains and winter operations
Summary
At a Feb. 3 proclamation, Montgomery County recognized Transit Equity Day, highlighted free-bus service and cited a 5.4% ridership increase and roughly $1,200 in annual savings per frequent rider; DOT leaders described extra service and snow-clearance efforts during a recent storm.
Montgomery County Council on Feb. 3 proclaimed Feb. 4 as Transit Equity Day in honor of Rosa Parks and used the occasion to highlight county transit policies, winter operations and recent ridership trends.
Council and Transportation and Environment Committee members framed Transit Equity Day as recognition of a civil-rights legacy and an opportunity to underscore local efforts to make transit accessible and affordable. One council member noted that, since the county's policy to make buses free, "ridership has increased 5.4% and riders have saved about $1,200 a year." The statistic was presented as part of the proclamation remarks.
Director Conklin of the Department of Transportation told the council the county increased service and worked with partners to clear bus-stop access during a recent historic snow event. "We made an extra effort with our highway services crew to clear access to bus stops through the massive glaciers," Conklin said, describing coordination with Metro crews to assist with snow removal and maintain service for riders who had essential trips during the storm.
Sam Oji, deputy general manager for transit services, recognized transit employees who worked overnight shifts and in freezing conditions to keep routes operating for residents who depend on transit for work, appointments and shelter access.
Council members used the proclamation to remind residents of programmatic supports — free bus rides, subsidized call-and-ride for seniors, and referral services — and to invite continued public participation in transit policy discussions.
