Athens Transit Adds Bus to Ease Route Crowding
Athens Public Transit adds 28-passenger bus to address capacity issues on busy routes
Athens Adds Bus to Ease Crowding on Key Routes
Athens Public Transit riders who've been left at stops when buses fill up will soon get relief. HAPCAP, the nonprofit operating the service, announced it's adding a 28-passenger bus to accommodate the system's 1,300 to 1,400 daily passengers. The new vehicle will primarily serve East State Street and Richland Avenue routes, where riders have frequently been left behind due to full buses.
Free Fares Drive Ridership Growth
The capacity issues stem partly from the system's success in attracting riders with free fares through April 2027, thanks to support from AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio. According to GeoStat, 7% of Athens residents don't own a vehicle, making reliable public transit essential for the community. Transit agencies typically add vehicles when ridership growth causes regular capacity problems, particularly on routes serving employment centers and residential areas. HAPCAP has operated Athens Public Transit for over 50 years.
Driver Reports 140 Daily Passengers
Mark Thatcher, an Athens Public Transit driver with over five years of experience, reports greeting approximately 140 passengers daily on his route. The service operates Monday through Friday across Athens, The Plains, Albany, the Village of Chauncey, and Nelsonville. Ben Ziff, HAPCAP's mobility coordinator, said the agency continues working toward implementing online support systems for riders. The expansion addresses a common challenge for small transit systems balancing limited fleets with growing demand.
Delivery Timeline Spans Three to Twelve Months
Delivery of the new bus may take between three to twelve months, though officials haven't provided a specific timeline for when it will enter service. Transit vehicle procurement typically involves manufacturing lead times, vehicle inspections, and driver training before new buses begin passenger service. Officials didn't say whether the bus has been ordered or is still in the procurement process.
Riders Can Track Service Updates
The additional capacity should reduce instances of riders being left behind during peak travel times on the system's busiest routes. Officials said they'll provide updates as the new vehicle moves through the delivery process. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for Athens Public Transit routes across the service area.
