Valley News Live - KVLY/KXJB - Fargo/Grand ForksF-M Bus Ridership Up in 2011

F-M Bus Ridership Up in 2011

News release from FM MATBUS:

During 2011, MATBUS fixed routes and MAT Paratransit services gave a combined 2,156,747 rides to passengers in the F-M community, representing a combined increase of more than 100,000, or 4.7%, over 2010.  MATBUS ridership has soared in recent years, increasing by more than 81% since 2005.

Route modifications, increasing gas prices, expanded and targeted marketing efforts and continued outreach activities have all assisted MATBUS in attaining these statistics.  MATBUS is seeing many "choice riders" on-board its vehicles; "choice riders" are those passengers who have their own vehicles, but choose to ride MATBUS instead.

The year of 2011 was also highlighted by the introduction of hybrid diesel-electric vehicles to the MATBUS and MAT Paratransit fleets, the creation of a MATBUS Familiarization workshop series for human service agencies, the Commuter Challenge eight-week campaign and the acceptance of two first-place national marketing awards from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).  In 2012, MATBUS will implement many of the recommendations of the recently adopted Transit Development Plan (TDP), host the national APTA Transit and University Communities Conference and introduce three 40-foot hybrid diesel-electric buses to its fleet.

Julie Bommelman, Transit Administrator for the City of Fargo, stated, "2011 was a banner year for the entire MATBUS organization.  The introduction of hybrid technology is enabling us to realize savings in fuel costs, while further solidifying our environmental commitment.  We are proud to transport millions of F-M residents and encourage all others to Go Green and Ride with Us!"

Lori Van Beek, Transit Manager for the City of Moorhead, stated, "Ridership in Moorhead hit a record high in 2011 with over 430,000 passengers—a 15% increase from 2010.  By providing affordable transportation to work and school, transit plays a vital role in a recovering economy."

MATBUS is the largest rideshare program in the area, offering 25 fixed routes in Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and Dilworth, in addition to MAT Paratransit door-to-door services.  The operation of MATBUS requires a $6.28 million annual investment and over 100 employees, which includes administrative staff, bus operators and technicians.