Schuyler considering big hike in commuter bus fares

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Brenda
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Schuyler considering big hike in commuter bus fares
By Glenda Gephart • Gannett News Service • June 5, 2008

WATKINS GLEN — Escalating transportation costs are sending more Schuyler County residents to commuter buses at the same time county lawmakers are considering increasing bus fares.

When they meet for their monthly session on Monday, Schuyler legislators will be asked to schedule a public hearing for July 14 at which comments will be taken on increasing the monthly bus fare by $58.

Legislator Dennis Fagan, R-Tyrone, told fellow lawmakers at their Resolution Review Committee meeting Wednesday that the fare hike will cover just half of the expected increase in costs to operate buses from Schuyler County to Ithaca and Elmira through the end of the year.

The monthly fare currently is $72. The new fare, which would be discussed at the public hearing, is proposed to be $130 — an 81 percent increase.

“That just shows how dire the situation is,” Fagan said.

At a meeting Tuesday night, attended by about 40 people who now use the bus, primarily to Cornell University, riders said they were willing to pay more, Fagan said.

“They really appreciate the predicament, and they truly value the service,” County Administrator Timothy O’Hearn said.

Cornell is considering operating a van for its employees in outlying areas.

Lawmakers also will act Monday on a contract with First Transit of Elmira for the operation of the bus system through the end of the year. The cost will be about $100,000.

Legislators said that in the next few months they will have to seriously consider the merits and detriments of continuing the bus system, which is currently being operated by First Transit. The county has an ambitious plan for transportation services, but officials are now looking at costs that are forcing them to reconsider.

Legislators will also vote on banning bus parking at Seneca Harbor Park in Watkins Glen during operating hours. Tour buses visiting the village are challenged to find places to park.
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Matt
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now is the time for them to decrease rates to get commuters off the fence.
With gas prices like they are- people are starting to consider taking the bus... drop the fare and ....SOLD!
Maybe those who are running RTS should take over?
Our monthly is less than half that!
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That was my thinking as well. Just when they should be encouraging people to use mass transit...and what's with the no bus parking at Seneca Harbor Park??? There's no place else for them TO park! Let's discourage tourism in Watkins Glen.
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