News & Events: Press Releases
January 19, 2007
RECORD-BREAKING RIDERSHIP PARALLELS NATIONAL GROWTH
Trolley Ridership Increases as System Focuses on "Rider Under Cover" Initiative
Media Contact: Allison Fogt
850-878-5531 x223
afogt@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - As the New Year kicks off, Bay Town Trolley is ecstatic to announce that year-end ridership numbers have surpassed expectations. In 2006, the system reached its highest ridership to date - far exceeding its goal to break a quarter of a million riders. December 2006 statistics show that 23,778 customers boarded the trolley, bringing annual ridership to 309,149 - a 28 percent increase from the total number of riders at this time last year.
It seems Bay County's ridership is aligned with national trends. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) announced that public transportation ridership has increased by nearly three percent in the first nine months of 2006, as Americans took 7.8 billion trips on public transit.
"The incredible ridership numbers are a strong indication that the community truly understands and embraces the benefits of public transportation," said Beth Coulliette, executive director of Bay Town Trolley. "We are delighted with the continued success of the system and will continue growing to meet the demands of our Panama City residents and visitors."
As 2007 moves forward, the system will focus on a fresh initiative - "Rider Under Cover." This effort will drive toward two main objectives: not only literally keeping riders under cover at trolley stops with transportation shelters, but also the recruitment of seven riders to go "under cover" and provide continual feedback on the system.
Although the system is currently operating without any local funding - which would support longer hours and Saturday service - rising ridership demonstrates that Bay Town Trolley plays an integral role in the Panama City community.
Even with decreased gas prices toward last year's end, Bay Town Trolley experienced continued success. Climbing ridership can be attributed to several factors, including necessary route expansions, placement of benches and shelters throughout the community, and the desire of many residents to utilize alternative transportation options.
Bay Town Trolley is an award-winning transit system that serves the growing needs of Bay County, Monday through Friday, with hundreds of stops daily. For more information about Trolley routes and service call (850) 769-0557 or visit www.BayTownTrolley.org. Bay Town Trolleys are equipped with bicycle racks and wheelchair lifts.
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