Bus line announces area stop
More than a year passed since the opening of the Washington Intermodal Transit Facility, and services, ridership and routes continue to expand.
Joseph Thomas, director of fixed-route services for Freedom Transit – a result of the merger of Washington County Transportation Authority and Washington City Transit – reported during the city council meeting Thursday annual ridership doubled from 40,000 three years ago to more than 80,000 now.
“I certainly think the transit center has played a role in that,” Thomas said.
The merger occurred in July 2015 as part of a statewide initiative to consolidate public transportation agencies to reduce costs and make operations more efficient.
Opening of the hub at 50 E. Chestnut St. kicked off expanded service throughout the city, neighboring municipalities and Pittsburgh. The $3.7 million building serves as a the major drop-off, pick-up and transfer point for the fleet.
On Thursday, Thomas announced a collaboration with Mountain Line that will include service from Morgantown, W.Va., to Waynesburg, Washington, Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh International Airport.
“This opens up travel opportunities,” Thomas said.
The bus will service the park and ride on East Beau Street twice a day, seven days a week. Morning arrival times will be 9:05 a.m. northbound and 11:05 a.m. southbound. The evening stops will occur at 6:35 p.m. northbound and 9:45 p.m. southbound.
Mayor Scott Putnam, a member of the transportation authority board, said low gas prices have allowed transportation prices to remain competitive.
“We’re always looking at ways to save money while providing services,” Putnam said. “It’s good for the city and the region.”
For information, visit www.freedom-transit.org.