SMART Downriver bus routes up for major revamping
April 18, 2007 (Detroit) – SMART is in the beginning stages of planning major improvements to the bus services in the Downriver communities. Over the next several weeks SMART Idea Forums are scheduled for public input on new concepts, ways to streamline outdated routing and ideas to improve access to popular destinations. “The best way to make significant changes is by getting input from a lot of sources early on in the planning stages,” said Ron Ristau, Director of Service Development, “That helps us make sure we are meeting the current needs of the Downriver residents.”
The public has several opportunities to provide their suggestions for changes and improvements. SMART has scheduled three ‘Idea Forums’ at various locations throughout the downriver communities. In addition, for those who are unable to attend the Idea Forums, SMART has an online “Discuss Downriver” bulletin board on its website homepage at www.smartbus.org. Comments can be submitted until May 31, 2007.
Monday, April 23 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wayne County Community College
21000 Northline Road, Taylor
(near Racho Road on SMART Route 160)
Tuesday, May 1 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Allen Park Civic Arena
15800 White Street, Allen Park
(Southfield Road & Allen Road on SMART Route 150)
Wednesday, May 9 from 3 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
3131 Third Street, Wyandotte
(Eureka & Biddle on SMART Routes 110, 160 and 185)
Over the past 5 years SMART has systematically analyzed, revised and eliminated unproductive routes throughout the system. The Downriver area is the final phase of the revamp; however, SMART staff continues to analyze route productivity on a regular basis. Since beginning this process SMART ridership has grown 25 percent.
“By eliminating unproductive routes and adding those resources to routes with higher demands ridership has flourished. We are better able to meet the needs of our customers” said Dan Dirks, SMART General Manager, “The idea forums help us to develop better routes and services for the people in the downriver community. We have always prided ourselves on being good listeners and this is a great example of our desire to hear what people have to say about transit in their community.”
For more information call 866.962.5515 or visit www.smartbus.org . Written comments and suggestions can be mailed to:
SMART
660 Woodward Avenue, 9th Floor
Detroit, MI 48226
Attention: Scheduling Department
SMART is the suburban transit system for Southeast Michigan providing 12 million rides annually for commuters, entry level workers, senior citizens and people with disabilities.
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