The Union Recorder

Local News

November 4, 2009

Recession challenges rural transit

ATLANTA — Organizers of unique call-and-ride bus services designed to transport folks in remote areas say budget cuts could hobble Georgia's expanding rural transit network, just as job losses increase the number of rural residents needing cheap transportation.

There are 112 small transit systems serving some of Georgia's 1.8 million rural residents as part of the federal 5311 program, which provides cash for public transit in areas with under 50,000 residents.

But local leaders have to match funds and counties are strained. Bryan County Commission Chairman Jimmy Burnsed says the local system will need more ridership to survive.

Department of Transportation director Erik Steavens says the department can barely keep its current obligations to the program and won't be able to offer extra money.

Text Only
Local News
Poll
AP Video
White House Attacks Romney on Birth Control Homs Bombardment Continues, Global Outcry Grows Mo. Teen Gets Life Sentence for Killing Girl, 9 Lower-hassle Screening to Be Tested at Airports Raw Video: Dog Rescued From Icy Colo. Water Helmet Camera Captures Calif. Fire Rescue Worker Tells 911: Powell 'exploded the House' Triple Win: Santorum Takes Minn., Mo., Colo. Injured Marine Inspired by Homecoming No Rape Charges Against Son of NYPD Commissioner Egypt's Ruling Generals Play Risky Game With US Former Komen Exec Defends Funding Cut Skip the Coffee Cup and Inhale Your Caffeine Fix Calif. Gay Marriage Ban Ruled Unconstitutional Jury Selection for Ex-UVa Athlete Enters 2nd Day Cab Driver Helps Wis. Family Escape House Fire Staff Removed at LA School During Abuse Probe Runaway Goat Leads Police on Wild Chase
Facebook
Twitter Updates
Follow us on twitter
Follow me on Twitter
Community Calendar
Loading…
Events by eviesays.com
Parade
Magazine

Click HERE to read all your Parade favorites including Hollywood Wire, Celebrity interviews and photo galleries, Food recipes and cooking tips, Games and lots more.
Stocks