Council raises safety concerns over buses detouring onto Madeira residential streets; staff to coordinate with transit agencies

Councilmember Logan Junger reported conversations with Metro and SORTA about temporary route diversions onto residential streets because of construction and said residents have asked for no buses on residential streets, citing safety concerns. Junger asked the Economic Development Committee to review alternative routing options and potential restrictions.

City Manager Michael Norton-Smith said Metro has indicated a commitment to work collaboratively with the city but cautioned that moving established routes could impair operational capacity; he also noted that drivers sometimes make independent decisions en route that do not reflect Metro policy. Councilmember Chad Shaffer said he shared safety concerns and favored collaboration with SORTA (the regional transit authority). Dr. Alicia Camper emphasized the importance of public transit for business employees and customers and observed that Metro's Access service is only available within established routes — meaning broader Access coverage would require adjustments to formal routes, not just ad hoc diversions. Mayor Henning recommended referring the matter to Economic Development and Safety committees for further work, and encouraged residents to document route deviations and contact Metro directly.