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Riders urge Pulaski not to cut service as transit reports ridership gains and seeks local match
Summary
Pulaski Area Transit reported FY25 ridership of 32,390 (up 3,048 year-over-year) and requested $79,262 in local matching funds for FY27; multiple residents testified during public comment that they rely on the bus for groceries, medication and work and urged council to preserve service.
Monica, representing Pulaski Area Transit, told council the system finished FY25 with 32,390 riders, an increase of 3,048 from 2024, and said route additions in town began Oct. 1. She said the FY27 operating request will be $756,650 and that the town’s requested local match for operating in Pulaski would be $79,262.
Monica outlined that DRPT indicated funding streams will change in FY27 (a shift to 50% state funds) and that replacement-vehicle match requirements currently at 4% could rise to 10% in future years. She said the transit program plans to request three replacement vehicles for FY27 (two high-mileage 2019 vans and one totaled vehicle) and also requested a $60,000 spare-parts grant to reduce maintenance shortfalls.
During public comment several riders told the council they rely on the bus for essential trips. James Whitaker said he and his wife ‘‘don’t drive’’ and depend on buses for groceries. Maria Dalton said the bus takes her to therapy and home. Other commenters echoed those concerns and urged the council not to reduce service.
Council members asked technical questions: whether the totaled vehicle would count among the three replacement requests; whether vehicle procurement is sole-source via a state contract; and whether proceeds from selling surplus vehicles would be applied to the local match. Monica confirmed the totaled vehicle was included in the three-request count, that the state contract currently lists a single supplier, and that proceeds from GovDeals sales go toward local match where applicable.
Staff reminded council grants open Dec. 1 and are due Feb. 1, and recommended the town consider the budget request and formally act at the next meeting when more information is available. Council confirmed a follow-up date (Dec. 2) for further consideration.
