County holds meeting on public transportation system

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw held a special-called meeting on the morning of Monday. Nov. 12, to officially apply for an annual transit grant in the amount of $99,020, divided equally between federal and county entities. Towns County Transit Secretary Betty Greenwood attended the meeting, along with Towns County Financial Secretary Andrea Anderson. According to the government officials, approximatrely $19,000 in revenue is derived from the transit system annually. The revenue will in turn off-set the county portion, reducing the amount to approximately $30,500.

According to Commissioner Bradshaw, Towns County Transit transported 3,802 passengers last year, amounting to an average of 317 per month. Bradshaw stated that a third bus may be necessary in the future. “Right now, I don’t think we’re there yet, but we’re going to keep an eye on it,” the commissioner explained

In addition to the signing of the grant application, the transit procurement policy was updated to redefine the detailed definition of purchases.

Towns County Transit operates Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, with the exception of holidays. A 24-to-48 hour reservation is necessary for scheduling purposes. The current fare for a one-way trip is $2.00 for the first mile, with .40 cents added for each mile, rounded to the nearest dollar. Each stop is an additional $2.00 charge. A flat rate fare of $6.00 is set for a one-way trip to Union County, doubled for roundtrip. A flat rate fare roundtrip fare to Young Harris is $8.00, limited to $4.00 for a one-way trip.

Once a passenger disembarks at a destination and re-enters the bus, the trip is considered completed, and a new fare of $2.00 is required.

Passengers with small children must provide a safety seat which meets current stae and federal regulations. Up to two children under the age of five may travel with a paying parent or guardian, free of charge.

Drivers cannot make change, extend credit, or allow free rides.

The transit system operates within Towns and Union County, and is offered solely to Towns County residents.

For additional information on the Towns County Transit System, visit the county website.

Reservations can be scheduled by dialing 706-896-0925.