Transit report: ridership down 7% this fiscal year; new van added and CTS software awaiting IDOT approval

The county’s transit manager presented June and year-to-date transit figures and operational updates to the committee.

In June the transit system provided 1,283 rides, averaging about 61 rides per day, and registered 12 new riders. Staff reported a fiscal-year total of 16,231 rides, a 7% decrease from the prior year. Staff said some long-term dialysis riders moved to free transport provided by Morris Hospital and that other riders who previously rode to work may now drive, both factors contributing to the decline.

Staff also reported the delivery of a new plain-white van (arrived from Breeze, Illinois) that the agency expects will accommodate two wheelchairs, though staff noted it will be tight with two wheelchair users. The fleet count reported in the meeting is 14 vehicles total: 12 buses and 2 vans. The van will be used as a revenue vehicle and scheduled with prescheduled rides; all rides are scheduled in advance and drivers operate to a planned roster rather than on fixed-route demand.

The agency said it applied for IDOT grant-related approvals and submitted a pre-award concurrence for CTS scheduling software; staff said the agency is awaiting IDOT’s sign-off before a contract can be executed. Staff noted attendance at an upcoming event: Senator Severson’s Senior Health Fair on Aug. 4 at Saratoga School, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where transit will have a table.

Committee members voted to approve transit claims as presented. Staff said vehicle outfitting and scheduling details will be worked out as the van enters regular service.