Votran implements temporary service changes

April 20, 2022

Just like many transit agencies throughout the country, Votran is continuing to experience challenges reaching pre-pandemic staffing levels. To prevent further disruptions in service to customers, Votran will implement temporary service adjustments. Effective Monday, April 25, service for routes 7 and 20 will transition from 30-minute intervals to 60-minute intervals.

Additionally, paratransit Transportation Disadvantaged service may be prioritized based on the purpose of the trip, with medical trips and riders with ADA needs receiving priority. The need to prioritize paratransit trips will be evaluated daily, based on the availability of personnel and the number of trips scheduled. During these temporary changes, every effort will be made to complete every trip requested.

There are no changes to the trips provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act programs.

“Over the past two years, transit agencies statewide have had to adjust service due to staffing shortages and hiring difficulties,” said Votran General Manager Kelvin Miller. “Votran is committed to providing safe, reliable service to customers and we’re working diligently to address these challenges and resume regular service as quickly as possible.”

Other measures that have been implemented to help address the staffing shortage include an employee hiring bonus and retention bonuses. These measures, along with the interim service modifications, are designed to ensure service continues to operate smoothly while actively recruiting additional staff.

Due to the situational nature of these changes, printed bus schedules may not reflect the most current operations while service adjustments are in effect. Signage and “Take-Ones” are available inside buses, at the Votran Transfer Plaza and the Votran Administrative Office. For real-time information, customers can visit Votran.org/take-a-trip. Riders may also select the “Join” button at the bottom of the homepage to sign up for timely notices about bus service changes. The website also provides up-to-date alerts and real-time bus information. Riders can also download the free MyStop Mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.