Concho Valley Transit describes 16,000‑square‑mile rural service area and appeals to county to maintain support

Concho Valley Transit representatives said the agency’s rural service covers an enormous area—presenters repeatedly described a service footprint of about 16,000 square miles—and that county support has been critical to keeping long‑distance routes operating. The transit staff explained that newer buses and a recently updated fleet help support safety and comfort for riders traveling long distances, but rising gas prices and staff costs put pressure on their operating budget.

The presenters also introduced new leadership: the court heard that Ryan Herrera is director of transportation and Jeremy Warren is deputy director, and staff invited commissioners to remain engaged as route planning and funding discussions continue. “We cover 16,000 square miles and, you know, tell everybody it's larger than the state of Massachusetts,” a transit representative said, underlining the geographic pressures the service faces. Commissioners gave oral appreciation and one commissioner shared a personal example of family members using the service for medical appointments.

No formal funding motion was made; transit asked commissioners to continue the existing partnership and to help publicize services that reach outlying communities.