Medina County Transit delays South Circular Service launch after outreach pushback; ridership dipped in May

Transit Director Shannon Rine told the Medina County Board of Commissioners on June 23 that May ridership dipped slightly, but operational performance remained strong. Rine said passengers-per-mile and scheduling productivity were positive, maintenance issues have declined after placing four newer vehicles into service, and the department has recorded zero trip denials for four consecutive months.

Rine said declining fuel prices should ease cost-per-mile pressure but noted the department continues to monitor other cost drivers, including overtime. He told commissioners that installation of a new Verizon radio system is nearly complete, and implementation of passenger-notification software is expected toward the end of July.

After a public meeting attended by about 13–14 community members to discuss the South Circular Service, officials received letters and other communications expressing concern. "As a result, the department planned to delay the initial July 7 launch by a couple of weeks in order to continue outreach and ensure the service changes were well understood," Rine said. He noted the service area includes members of the Amish community as well as other southern-county riders and that planners will add an additional Thursday option to the service as requested by riders.

Commissioner Aaron M. Harrison asked how the department evaluates cost-per-mile increases when fuel rises; Rine responded that fuel is the most significant factor but that staff also track passengers per mile and labor costs to assess efficiency. The department intends to continue outreach before the rescheduled launch date.