Scott County panel explores bus and trolley pilot after reviewing Seymour's INDOT-funded model

Scott County Visitors Commission members used their April 14 meeting to discuss a potential county transit pilot — ranging from a trolley for events to a small bus for medical and hotel connections — and to gather information on funding and operational models.

Staff said they had visited Seymour and spoken with Mr. Walls, who oversees transportation there. "He's in charge of transportation up there," staff said, describing a program that grew into an indispensable local service and that now operates multiple vehicles. Seymour's program was described as funded using an 80/20 grant model (approximately 80% state/federal, 20% local contribution) through INDOT grant programs, according to staff remarks.

Commissioners discussed capital and operating costs (vehicle purchase or lease, insurance, driver pay, maintenance and management) and whether the county or a city should apply for grants and operate the service. They recommended pursuing conversations with INDOT and the Seymour mayor to understand application requirements and suggested polling residents and stakeholders to confirm demand.

The mayor agreed to contact Seymour officials and INDOT; commissioners noted any formal application would need to be submitted by a municipal or county government entity. Commissioners also discussed marketing and ridership strategies, including app‑based tracking of vehicles and potential private‑public partnerships to reduce local operating burden.