Connect Transit sees drop in ridership

Posted on October 27, 2015
Andrew Johnson, Chris Koos, Tari Renner
General Manager Andrew Johnson (left) said there are a few reasons Connect Transit saw a drop in riders. (Adam Studzinski/WJBC)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – The first quarter of Connect Transit’s fiscal year saw a 7.6 decrease in riders compared to last year.

That equates to about just over 51,000 fewer people riding the bus.

General Manager Andrew Johnson said there are a few reasons for the decrease, one of which is lower gas prices.

“We’re seeing gas now for around $2 a gallon. I’ve even heard under $2 a gallon and that’s having a definite effect on what we call our ‘choice’ ridership,” said Johnson. “People who have other options, might have a car at home, might have other ways to get around, because gas is so cheap they’re using it.”

Additionally, Johnson said Connect Transit’s route structures are an issue.

“They’re not maximizing the convenience for our riders,” said Johnson. “That’s why we’re doing our comprehensive operational analysis right now; taking a look at our route structure and seeing how we can make it more efficient and more effective for people.”

Johnson added there is some concern, but he’s not panicking. He explained the amount of construction and subsequent detours in Bloomington-Normal are also leading to a drop in ridership.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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