GASTONIA, N.C. — With Gastonia set to shift gears from public bus routes to microtransit, the city government is looking to gather input from neighbors about what they want to see with the service.
The city is planning to increase fares beginning July 1, 2024. Bus fare for a one-way trip currently costs $1.25 but would increase by 75 cents to $2. Elderly neighbors and those with disabilities currently pay a lower rate of 60 cents per one-way ride, but that would increase to $1 should the proposed fare increase go forward.
Two public comment drop-in sessions were held Wednesday, April 24 at the Bradley Bus Station on Oakland Street. The city council will also hold a public hearing during its meeting on May 7, 2024. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at City Hall, located on South South Street.
Written comments can be submitted to the city via mail, email or fax as well. Mailed comments can be sent to the city of Gastonia Transportation Department with attention to transportation director Randi Gates at this address:
City of Gastonia Transportation Department
PO Box 1748
Gastonia, NC 28053
Email comments can be sent to Randi.Gates@gastonianc.gov. Faxed comments should be sent to 704-869-1960.
The shift to microtransit means the city of Gastonia will end fixed-bus routes. In its place will come on-demand microtransit, with vans picking up and dropping off passengers. Neighbors who need a ride can book one online much like a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft.