West Memphis wants community input on MATA

West Memphis wants community input on MATA

City facing challenge to keep ‘ free’ rides rolling

news@theeveningtimes.com

Riding the bus is free in West Memphis. But keeping the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) bus circulating at no cost to riders has been a challenge for West Memphis administrators since the Job Access/ Reverse Commute funding dried up two years ago. The program underwrote free rides to connect welfare recipients and low income people to jobs and services. But the number of routes and frequencies of the MATA buses were reduced when funding changed.

Somer Smith with city community development, is conducting a survey and hosting two community meetings to discuss possible updates and amendments to the MATATransit System.

“West Memphians do not pay a fare to ride the bus throughout the city and into downtown Memphis,” said Smith. “In order to keep this free service, we need your support. Come tell us what needs to be improved and how MATA can better serve you. The city of West Memphis and the Memphis Area Transit Authority are hosting two public meetings to discuss the current transit service in West Memphis.

The two meetings will be held at different locations.

The first meeting will be at the Housing Authority Tenant Service Building, 430 S. 26th St. on Wednesday May 10, from 3 to 4 p.m.

The second public meeting is set for City Hall, 205 S.

Redding, on Thursday May 11, from 5 to 6 p.m.

Residents who can’t make the meeting may take a short anonymous survey in person at city hall or online at www.surveymonkey. com/r/westmemphisma ta .

“We encourage all to attend and participate in the meetings, because community input is an essential part of building a stronger community,” said Smith.

By John Rech