By Adam Studzinski
NORMAL – Normal’s town council will vote on a motion Monday urging the state to release downstate funding for mass transit.
Connect Transit has said if it does not receive its latest state payment, it will have to shut down its service.
“They’re critically important for many in our community who don’t have other means of transportation,” said Normal City Manager Mark Peterson. “As well as for businesses who have employees who rely on transit to get them to and from work and customers to and from businesses.”
Many downstate transit systems would also be affected if funding continues to be withheld. Connect Transit has already sent 60 day layoff notices to its employees.
“We’re hoping we’ll add another public body to the chorus of those that are talking to leaders in Springfield, as well as our own local legislators, to plead with them to find a solution to this problem by the end of the year,” Peterson said.
The Connect Transit service shut down would begin Dec. 31.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
