×

Weirton Transit Corp. works for expansion

WEIRTON — Weirton Transit Corp. are working to continue expansion of its system, with the expected arrival of new buses in the coming months, as well as the installation of at least two new shelters in the city.

“We’re talking to the different property owners,” Assistant Director Mark Henne said Wednesday.

Currently, plans are to have one shelter near the fire station on Marland Heights, and another at a location in the northern area of the city.

Once arrangements are made with the property owners, and all of the designs are established, WTC officials will be able to take the request before the Weirton Planning Commission.

“We have to have all that before we can get on the agenda,” Henne said.

Henne said he is hoping to have everything addressed by either November or December, so installation of the shelters can begin before winter weather hits the area.

WTC is set to receive four new buses, with two to replace current vehicles, by early 2017, although Henne noted there could be some delay because the company through which three of the buses are being purchased recently was sold.

“They’re going through some transitional things,” Henne said, noting the new company needs to go through records to ensure the bus purchases are continuing to meet WTC’s specifications.

Transit Director Kevin Beynon noted ridership numbers for September are close to those of the same time last year, surpassing 4,500 riders for the month.

“It’s the third increase for the calendar year,” Beynon said. “We’re getting back to where we want to be.”

Board member Brian Maley noted he often sees some of the highest ridership numbers in September and October. Beynon explained, with school in session, the spring and autumn months often are the busiest times for the public transit provider.

WTC board members also agreed Wednesday to begin advertising in order to fill a recently vacated board seat.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

COMMENTS

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today