Bus Use Along the Shoreline Continues to Grow

Do you ride the bus to work, appointments, errands or for other reasons?  If so, you already know that the local bus line, 9 Town Transit, has extended their services to include more stops in more towns, have increased their hours of operation and have added more connections - all for a reasonable fare of $1.50.

Once again 9 Town Transit has seen large growth in ridership.  Extended service hours, regional connections, new service in Haddam and improved awareness contributed to growth of 15% during 2012.

Since 2009, 9 Town Transit has greatly expanded the reach and hours of its services.  Public bus service is now available from the shoreline to New Haven, New London, Middletown and Hartford, all for a fare of $1.50.   Most services now begin around 6am and end at 7pm or later.  Connections are offered to four neighboring transit systems.

In addition to service improvements, 9 Town Transit has been actively promoting awareness of public transit options in the region.  This has included a new website, brightly painted buses, bus stop signage throughout the region, print advertising and participation in community events.

These factors contributed to a total annual ridership of just under 98,500 passenger trips, an 83% increase since 2009.  About half of all trips are now work related.  All services are open to the general public.

Additional information, route maps and schedules are available online at www.9towntransit.com or by calling 860-510-0429.

-- Information provided by the Estuary Transit District.