The start of classes at Kenyon College has led to a significant increase in passengers, Knox County Transit Director Bethany Celmar informed the Knox County Commission during its September 30 meeting.
"Once back to school hit, we had a total of 1,796 riders that week of Sept. 8 through the 12th," Celmar said, according to a video of the meeting.
According to the meeting video, Celmar reported that Knox County Transit experienced between 1,400 and 1,500 trips each week in August. The transit agency recorded 1,215 on-demand riders, 288 people on the Mount Vernon routes, and 66 people on the Kenyon route. In the first week of September, total ridership was 1,569, with the Kenyon route increasing to 184 riders. The following week saw 445 riders on the Mount Vernon routes and 211 on the Kenyon route.
Celmar said that usage of transit routes is rising while on-demand ridership remains stable. She noted that budget constraints have impacted operations; one driver's position was cut, leaving three full-time driver positions available. A dispatch position was also eliminated. Some legacy riders have expressed dissatisfaction due to difficulties securing on-demand trips. However, Celmar mentioned efforts are being made to meet as much demand as possible. Availability remains on bus routes and nursing home residents reportedly appreciate these services.
Celmar explained that Knox County Transit faces challenges in meeting demand due to unpredictable changes in passengers' plans. Instances such as illness or inclement weather often lead to cancellations. Many passengers communicate their on-demand requests via email or phone calls.
Celmar concluded by saying that expanding the budget or increasing drivers and buses for on-demand service is unlikely. She emphasized that fixed routes are essential for accommodating growing transportation needs and suggested that encouraging more passengers onto fixed routes would alleviate pressure and allow better provision for those who require on-demand services.
