A recent WZQZ News and ChattoogaInfo report about Chattooga County’s application for federal rural transit funding prompted a number of social media comments from residents who did not realize the county already operates a public transportation system.
The Chattooga County Transit System is already in operation and provides transportation for medical appointments, shopping, social services and other needs. The system is dispatched through the Chattooga County Public Works Department and currently operates three transit buses.
One bus operates a continuous route serving senior citizen housing areas and other residential neighborhoods, with transportation to local supermarkets and stores.
A second bus is available for call-in service for doctor’s appointments, healthcare trips and other transportation needs.
The county also provides transportation to and from Rome for residents who need dialysis treatments or appointments with doctors in Floyd County.
What Does It Cost?
The county currently lists the fare for trips within Chattooga County at $2 one way.
Transportation to Rome is listed at $10 roundtrip.
The county says fares are cash only and exact change is required.
Why Transit Is Back In The News
The transit system came back into the spotlight after Chattooga County published notice that it is applying for continued federal assistance under Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which supports public transportation in rural areas.
The public notice was published September 24, beginning a 15-day public comment period. Residents have until Friday, October 9, to submit comments or request a public hearing concerning the county’s application. Chattooga 1180
As part of the application process, the county is asking residents to comment on local rural transportation services. Input is being specifically requested from elderly, low-income and disabled residents and their representatives so their transportation needs can be considered.
Private for-profit transportation operators are also being given an opportunity to provide input or express interest in participating in the program.
Residents may request a public hearing to discuss either the transportation services being offered or development of the funding application. If no response is received during the 15-day comment period, the county transit system will proceed with the application.
Comments and hearing requests should be submitted to Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen, 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville. The Commissioner’s Office can be reached at 706-857-0700.
How To Use The Transit System
Residents who want information about routes, scheduling a trip or whether transportation is available for a particular need can contact Chattooga County Public Works at 706-857-0736 or the Commissioner’s Office at 706-857-0700. Chattooga County
The recent discussion over the county’s funding application has highlighted a service that some residents apparently did not know was already available. For people who do not drive, need transportation to medical care or need a ride to local stores, Chattooga County Transit is already providing those services.
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