News & Events: Press Releases
October 5, 2007
TRANSPORTATION SHELTER BENEFITS GROWING NUMBER OF TROLLEY RIDERS
Bay Town Trolley Installs New Shelter at Health Department
Media Contact: Allison Fogt
850-878-5531 x223
afogt@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - Public transportation across the nation is experiencing growing trends. Here in Bay County, September ridership reached 29,975, bringing the yearly total to 292,810 passengers. This reflects a 27 percent increase from the total number of customers at this time last year. As the number of trolley riders continues to soar, the need for transportation shelters is becoming more apparent.
One local organization, the Bay County Health Department, has directly responded to the needs of these growing riders. With a trolley stop in close proximity to their front doorstep, the department opted to have a transportation shelter installed on its property. This new shelter, funded by the Bay County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and located at the corner of 11th St. & Bell Ave., will be constructed by week's end.
It is estimated that this Health Department trolley stop receives an average of 18 to 20 riders per week. This means in one year, with the placement of just one shelter, roughly 1,000 riders will be shielded from the elements of sun, wind and rain.
"We are always looking for opportunities to reach out to the community we serve," said Rick Davis, Acting Director for Bay County Health Department. "Installation of this transportation shelter will ultimately be a positive contributing factor to the health and well-being of Bay County riders."
In addition to this Health Department shelter, Bay Town Trolley has received funding through the TPO to purchase 10 additional transportation shelters. Locations for these have yet to be determined.
"We couldn't be more pleased that local businesses are stepping up in support of fellow residents," said Beth Coulliette, Executive Director for Bay Town Trolley. "At a time when ridership is reaching an all-time high, this community support enables us to meet increasing demands with improved service."
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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