Suffolk seeks transit input

Published 10:42 pm Friday, March 23, 2012

The city is looking for resident input on the Virginia Regional Transit bus service. It is looking to make changes to the service.

After less than three months of a new public transit service, city leaders say the feedback has been positive and they continue to evaluate ways to make the service better.

Part of that evaluation includes a public input survey, which is located on the city’s website.

“The people that live in downtown Suffolk need to really voice their opinions,” said Annie Ausby, who rides the bus once or twice a week to get to doctor’s appointments and to run errands.

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Ausby has been a part of the positive feedback trumpeted by city officials. She says the drivers are kind and the routes get her to where she needs to go.

“I’m happy with the service,” she said. “I have fun riding the buses.”

Even though Ausby, who is retired, could borrow her son’s van to get around, she said she enjoys riding the bus because she can sleep and doesn’t have to deal with traffic headaches.

The city switched from Hampton Roads Transit to Virginia Regional Transit to save money this fiscal year. The change happened on Jan. 1.

So far, city officials said, they have received positive feedback. They’re also looking to make some changes.

The online survey is part of an ongoing study to evaluate the needs of the residents. The study also is looking at a possible relocation for the transfer point, currently located in a parking lot off Saratoga Street.

“We’re going to examine all options as it relates to what will be best for the city,” City Manager Selena Cuffee-Glenn said at this week’s City Council meeting.

Councilman Curtis Milteer said he wanted the bus service to begin looping through the Saratoga neighborhood. Councilman Leroy Bennett said he wanted the possibility of service in North Suffolk to be examined.

“There are a lot of concerns about transportation in that area,” Bennett said.

L.J. Hansen with Suffolk Public Works also said the city is looking at developing different standards for bus stops and signage.

“We’re hoping to develop some standards for a better look and a better feel,” he said.

To complete the survey, visit www.suffolkva.us/suffolk-transit-survey.html.