Small Town News

Stimulus funds pay for bus ports, bus in Richland County

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Due to stimulus money through the American Recovery and Reinvestment-Act, two bus ports and a new bus will be additions to Richland County.

Jodi Berry coordinator/dispatcher for the Richland County Transportation System, told county commissioners Monday that Richland Opportunities Inc. will have two bus ports - one by the ROI workshop and another between the two group homes.

The county won't need to provide any matching funds for the projects.

In addition, a new bus will be owned by the Richland County Transportation System and used by Richland Opportunities Inc.

Berry said the county will not need to provide any matching funds for the bus either. She says usually the county needs to pick up 20 percent when grants help purchase buses. "That saves the county about $10,000," Berry added.

Ridership is steadily increasing for the transportation system. Numbers have gone up from 13,835 in 2006 to 23,518 in 2007 and 32,170 ' in 2008.

"So far this year it looks like we are on track to be higher still," Berry said. She notes that mandatory federal reporting is increasing so it's important for residents to make use of the service.

Despite public opinion, the bus service is not only for senior citizens or handicapped individuals. Anyone can use the bus by calling 433-RIDE anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. Round-trip cost is $4 for seniors and $5 for individuals under the age of 60. Trips to Fairview or Savage cost $6, while a trip to Lambert costs $7. The buses are handicap accessible. editor@sidneyherald.com



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© 2009 Sidney Herald Sidney, Montana. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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