Frequency of Bus Service Increase Proposed in Easton: City Encourages Public Input on Transit Strategy
Easton Introduces Plan for Enhanced Bus Service
Easton, Pennsylvania, is set to enhance its public transportation system with a new plan for more frequent bus service in city neighborhoods and downtown. The initiative, developed over the past two years in collaboration with the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA), aims to make transit a practical choice for daily trips.
Mayor Sal Panto Jr. highlighted the importance of increased investment in public transit as Easton continues to grow. He recalled growing up using buses and considers public transit to be the wave of the future. City Councilman Frank Pintabone echoed this sentiment, stating that the plan will not eliminate LANTA's current bus routes.
The expanded bus service is designed to allow riders to travel easily between neighborhoods and downtown, with quick bus arrival confidence. The plan envisions team buses running approximately every 10 minutes, although adjustments could be made based on resident feedback.
The goal of the plan is to alleviate congestion and the need for parking, as well as to make transit a realistic choice for daily trips. If the program proves successful, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation could absorb the cost into the LANTA budget.
The cost of the program is estimated to be in the 'low six figures'. The city will announce the dates for public meetings to gain further input, and residents will have opportunities to give feedback at these meetings and through online surveys. The survey questions are being completed by LANTA and will be released in two to three weeks. The survey will be available on social media and the city's website.
City Councilman Frank Pintabone mentioned that the city is responsible for 15% of the cost each year. He also stated that the city's goal is a 10-minute frequency, but adjustments could be made based on resident feedback.
Owen O'Neill, LANTA's executive director, emphasized the importance of high frequency in making transit a practical choice for daily trips. He believes that this plan will help Easton residents and visitors to travel more easily and efficiently within the man city.
The public meetings and the release of surveys for the implementation of the improved public transportation offer in the center of Easton take place on Tuesdays. Residents are encouraged to attend these meetings and complete the surveys to provide their feedback on the proposed bus service plan.
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