Due to the repair schedule for our fueling station, Pierce Transit is unable to return to regular service levels before beginning our planned service reductions. Emergency reduced bus service will continue through June 11, 2011.
As a result of the economic recession, our budget shortfall, and failure of our ballot measure asking voters for additional tax support, Pierce Transit’s Board of Commissioners told staff to reduce service by 35 percent by October 2011. Our budget can support only this reduced level of service.
The February 28 fire in our fueling station had a severe impact on our ability to operate regular weekday bus service. As a result, we have reduced regular service by 20 percent.
We learned that repairs to the fueling station will take several months. This long repair schedule means we will make our permanent service reductions sooner than planned, with a 20 percent reduction on June 12, 2011 and an additional 15 percent reduction on October 2, 2011.
We have prepared a Reduction Plan Rider Alert pamphlet that provides route-by-route information about the proposed service reductions. These pamphlets are available at our Bus Shops and on board buses.
Details of the June service change will be published in The Bus Stops Here booklet. The booklet will be available in early June. Our primary focus will continue to be getting our customers to work and to school.
SHUTTLE paratransit service for people with disabilities will also be reduced on October 2, 2011. This service operates on the same days and during the same time within three-quarters of a mile of bus routes. As bus service is reduced, SHUTTLE service will also be reduced.
Public hearings are scheduled to allow comments on the June and October service reductions.
Lakewood/University Place Puyallup/South Hill
Monday, April 11 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Monday, 25 April 4:00 PM to 6 PM
Pierce Transit Training Center Puyallup City Hall
3720 96th St SW, Lakewood 333 S. Meridian, Puyallup
Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula East Pierce County
Monday, April 18 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Thursday, April 28 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Gig Harbor Civic Center Interim Justice Center
3510 Grandview Street, Gig Harbor 9002 Main Street East, Bonney Lake
Tacoma
Thursday, April 21 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Municipal Building
747 Market Street, Tacoma