Public hearings scheduled on proposed expansion of Joplin trolley routes

(From the City of Joplin)

The City of Joplin is seeking to improve its fixed-route bus service for riders of the Sunshine Lamp Trolley.

The City’s Transit Division is considering an expansion of the Trolley routes and will be hosting two public meetings to get feedback from the community. The purpose of the proposed route changes would be to shorten the ride times between some of the most high-demand destinations, improving the overall efficiency of the service for our riders.

The proposed changes would increase the number of routes offered from 3 to 5 and the number of Trolley stops from the current 62 to over 100. While several frequently requested stops would be added, a small number of stops may be moved or deleted from the route map altogether. At this time, service hours and fares would not change.

The City will host two public meetings on Thursday, Aug. 20, at the following times:

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Both meetings will take place in the City Council Chambers on the 5th floor of City Hall, 602. S. Main Street. There will not be a presentation, but citizens will be able to view map boards and ask questions. The same information will be available at both meetings. Public transit riders and the general public are encouraged to attend and comment at either meeting.

In addition to the meetings, a 30-day public comment period about the proposal will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 11. Public comments should be submitted to Gina Thompson, Transportation Coordinator, at 417-624-0820 ext. 1800 or at gthompso@joplinmo.org.

NOTE: If you need disability-related auxiliary aids or services for the meeting, please contact our ADA Coordinator at 417-624-0820, EXT 1210, or the City Clerk's Office at 417-624-0820, Ext.1220. Kindly provide forty-eight (48) hours' notice to arrange for the aids or services. TTD Number: 417-625-4774.