Oshkosh transportation director outlines transit operations, program eligibility and capital needs

Transportation Director Jim Collins and his managers gave a detailed overview of the department's operations, finances, capital projects and workforce challenges.

Collins said GO Transit runs nine fixed bus routes on a 30‑minute frequency Monday through Saturday and described fares as $2 one‑way, $4 daily cap and $50 monthly. "When you get that number, you don't pay any anymore," he said, explaining the fare‑capping structure as an equity measure. Collins said federal and state grants fund roughly 52–60% of transit operations, passenger revenue covers around 15–20%, the City funds 15–20% and Winnebago County contributes about $0.5 million toward a roughly $6 million annual operating budget.

The presentation covered specialized programs: demand‑response/paratransit (contracted service) for seniors and riders with disabilities; the 'access to jobs' program for low‑income workers (current eligibility up to 275% of the federal poverty level and 30 hours/week), which staff said the transportation committee may consider expanding to 300% at its next meeting.

Collins reviewed capital priorities, including Phase 2 of the downtown transit center (ADA enhancements, six additional bus platforms, a temperature‑controlled shelter and public restrooms) with a ribbon cutting expected late summer/early fall. Staff are also implementing technology upgrades—new bus cameras with live feed, automatic passenger counters and plans for automated stop announcements and improved real‑time tracking.

Fleet concerns included mixed success with hybrid buses and practical barriers to electrification: infrastructure to support electric buses is currently lacking and cold‑weather performance is a concern. "They cost twice as much as a clean diesel bus," Collins said of electric vehicles, and staff noted peers' mixed results in northern climates.

Staff emphasized recruitment and retention problems across electricians, mechanics and transit operators, reporting vacant positions and low applicant numbers. The director said those hiring challenges constrain expansion of hours or services; council members raised questions about route design (loop versus linear) and how the route structure affects rider experience.

Ending: Collins said staff will continue technology and facility upgrades and bring capital and staffing requests through the normal CIP and budget processes; the council did not take immediate action on funding during the session.