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Chapter 4 |
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Regional
Transportation Goals Earlier sections of this study detailed existing
conditions within the study area. Based
in this information, the Northern Michigan Regional Transit Planning
Committee developed goals for a regional, multi-county transit system. Goals
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Provide access to essential destinations within the study
area for all residents, particularly the transit dependent population
which includes low income, elderly and persons with disabilities. ·
Establish flexible inter-county bus routes that connect
communities and operate on schedules with fixed stops Monday through
Friday. Design routes and
times to focus on employment, medical and human service trips. ·
Provide a service that meets the minimum public demand for
public transportation. ·
Design a system that delivers reliable and timely service. ·
Use safe, reliable and efficient vehicles, equipped with
wheelchair lifts. ·
Provide a service that is affordable to state and local
government, agencies and users; and is managed in a stable and
professional manner to minimize operational costs. ·
Coordinate with existing public transportation systems
within the region to assure the regional and local services complement
each other. ·
Coordinate the use of existing transit facilities to
minimize start-up costs and maximize operational efficiency. ·
With the support of counties in the study area, develop
and submit an application for a regional transit system to the Michigan
Department of Transportation. ·
Maximize federal, state, local, foundation, private, and
agency financial participation to fund capital and operational
expenditures. · Develop an interest in ridership through education and advertising. |