Green Mountain Transit Announces Service Reductions Due to Financial Instability
[Burlington, VT] – [August 27, 2024] – Green Mountain Transit (GMT) today announced a draft service reduction plan that looks to cut $3 million of its routes and services, This difficult decision comes in response to ongoing financial instability that has severely impacted the organization’s ability to maintain current service levels.As public transportation remains a critical service for many residents, this draft service reduction plan was made after a thorough analysis and consideration of all available options. GMT’s priority remains the safety and reliability of its services for those who depend on public transit.
“We know Vermonters are hurt when the service they rely on to get through their day is no longer there,” said Clayton Clark, General Manager for Green Mountain Transit. “Reducing transit options is counter to our vision of public service, but to continue serving our community we must remain financially viable.”
GMT will work closely with local governments, community organizations, and other stakeholders to mitigate the impact on riders. The organization is also exploring alternative funding sources and service models to ensure the long-term sustainability of public transit in the region. During the month of September, dates to be determined, GMT will present the draft service reduction at a series of public meetings.
The first round of service reductions is scheduled to take effect in November 2024, with the remaining service reductions scheduled in February and June 2025. GMT will be providing detailed information to customers regarding the specific routes and services that will be affected, as well as alternative transportation options.
To find the most current information regarding service reductions, please visit www.RideGMT.com/service-reductions. Anyone who wishes to make a public comment can do so by emailing planning@ridegmt.com.
Public Meetings to Present the Draft Service Reduction Plan
GMT will hold a series of public meetings to receive public comment on the draft service reduction plan.
| Wednesday, September 11, 2024 @ 5:30 PM | First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington 152 Pearl Street, Burlington |
| Thursday, September 12, 2024 @ 4:00 PM | Brownell Library 6 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction Recordings of this meeting can be found online: WATCH ON CABLE: You can watch this program on Town Meeting Television on Comcast (channel 1087) and Burlington Telecom (channels 17, 217, and 317). WATCH ONLINE: You can watch the program on our website by clicking here: https://www.cctv.org/watch-tv/programs/gmt-public-meeting-essex-junction-present-draft-service-reduction |
| Tuesday, September 17, 2024 @ 12:00 PM | Join Zoom Meeting Video Conference: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7507551826 Phone-in Audio Only: +1 309 205 3325 US Meeting ID: 750 755 1826 |
| Tuesday, September 17, 2024 @ 5:30 PM | Majestic 10 Theater 190 Boxwood St., Williston |
| Friday, October 4, 2024 @ 4:00 PM | Essex Town Offices 81 Main Street, Essex Junction |
| Tuesday, October 8, 2024 @ 4:00 PM | Montpelier Transit Center LINK Express stop We will be talking with passengers before each LINK trip. |
| Wednesday, October 9, 2024 @ 5:00 PM | Join Zoom Meeting Video Conference: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7507551826 Phone-in Audio Only: +1 309 205 3325 US Meeting ID: 750 755 1826 |
If you are unable to attend these meetings or have questions, please offer public comment by emailing the Planning Department at planning@ridegmt.com or by calling 802-540-2468 by October 11, 2024.