Resident asks board to clarify rumor of paratransit 'lift' cuts from 24 to 12 routes

During public comment, Sherwin Snelson asked the Knoxville Transit Authority to confirm or deny a circulating report that paratransit 'lift' service would be reduced from 24 routes to 12. "I've been told about the paratransit, the lift, cutting 12 routes from 24 down to 12," Sherwin said, calling the report a rumor and asking the agency to "squash it" if untrue. He asked whether there had been public discussion of such a change and warned of negative impacts on riders who rely on lift service and potential staffing and seniority complications among drivers.

The comment prompted no immediate, detailed response in the public transcript; staff did not confirm a cut or provide specifics during the hearing. Sherwin urged the board to clarify whether the change is under consideration and to explain any rationale, outreach and mitigation steps. The concern remains unresolved on the record; staff follow-up was requested by the commenter and would be a key next step for the agency to address accessibility and service continuity questions.