Public transit rolling into county

Public mass transportation services are being planned for Putnam County beginning in January.

The new service will be known as Putnam County Public Transit. The service will be an expansion of Rural Transit, which has served the residents of Lawrence, Monroe and Owen counties with public transit services since 1981 as part of the Area 10 Agency on Aging.

All individuals, regardless of age or ability, are invited to utilize the service. Providing reliable, affordable and accessible transportation will assist individuals of all ages in maintaining independence, health and dignity, thus improving the quality of life in Putnam County.

It has been determined by McDonald Transit Associates Inc. in their 1997 Economic Impact Study that every dollar invested in transit services in Putnam County will yield a return of $3.06 to the community. With fuel costs soaring, the return is significantly more today.

Service in Putnam County will include vehicles that go throughout the county during weekday peak periods. Customers can call ahead to schedule rides with same-day service as capacity permits.

One vehicle will serve the Greencastle area, and two others will cover county areas including Bainbridge, Cloverdale, Fillmore, Reelsville, Roachdale, Russellville and rural Putnam County. Service will be expanded as the demand for additional service increases.

Fares will be 75 cents within the county. Monthly passes will be available for $15. Some connections to service in other counties will be available. Residents of Putnam County will staff paid and volunteer positions.

Comments are welcome and can be sent to Putnam County Public Transit, care of Rural Transit, 630 W. Edgewood Drive, Ellettsville, IN 47429.