New bus shelters arriving

SANDUSKY — Sandusky officials remain driven to improve the public transportation system for its thousands of riders. During a recent public meeting, city commissioners took $40,500 in federal grant funds previously secured to purchase four new bus shelters for Sandusky Transit riders. In 2024, Sandusky Transit's fixed route — on a color-coded system, buses on those lines pick up people at precise times, on the hour, in specific spots throughout Erie County — transported more than 413,000 passengers across 135 bus stops "with only a total of six bus shelters," according to a city statement. Those 413,000 trips represent a record within any calendar year period. It tops the previous high of about 380,000 trips in 2023. "Feedback received from public engagement states that customers would like amenities at bus stops that protect them from the weather and bus stop waiting areas that make vehicles more accessible to passengers," the statement read. "Bus shelters offer several benefits to both commuters and the community, including weather protection, safety and security, comfort and accessibility." Colleen Gilson, the city's community development director, and James Stacey, the city's transit administrator, answered some more questions about the purchase: • Where: The new locations are near: — Hayes Avenue (Ohio 4) and Pierce Street — Huron Avenue and West Monroe Street — Remington Street and Rhode Street — Tiffin Avenue (U.S. 6) across from Dick's Carry-Out Liquor "The four new transit waiting environments were selected based on public engagement feedback, ridership patterns and the need to improve accessibility and comfort for transit users. These bus stops serve areas with significant foot traffic, frequent boardings and connections to key destinations. These locations will enhance the transit experience for riders by providing shelter from weather conditions and improving accessibility for all passengers." Note: The existing six shelters in the Sandusky area are located at: — Washington (U.S. 6) and Wayne Streets, also doubling as the transit's hub/transfer station — 222 Meigs St. at the justice center — West Washington and Lawrence streets — West Madison Street within Central Park — Kroger — Columbus Avenue and King Street • When: The new 12-by-5' shelters should be installed by springtime or summertime. They should appear similar to the ones already in existence. • How: "The city recognizes the need for additional shelters and is committed to improving transit infrastructure. The installation of these four shelters is part of a broader effort to enhance the Sandusky Transit System, and future transit waiting environment additions will depend on available funding, ridership needs, and public input. The City will continue to seek grants and funding opportunities to provide more shelters at priority locations."