Legislator Dixon announces public hearing on proposed changes to NFTA bus routes

To be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 18, at ECC South Campus

(Orchard Park, NY) – News that the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) might be considering cuts to bus service in the southtowns has riders wondering how they would get to work if service was stopped in their area.

In addition, the NFTA had not scheduled a public hearing on the matter in the affected area, denying those directly impacted a fair opportunity to speak.

Erie County Legislator Lynne Dixon, District 12, spoke up for her constituents, saying the locations of the NFTA's public hearings - Buffalo, Cheektowaga, and Niagara Falls – does not serve all residents. In response, she worked to schedule a hearing closer to the affected area.

"The residents living in the southtowns should be allowed to speak about these proposed cuts without traveling an excess distance, especially since many don't have an alternate form for transportation. They rely on the NFTA's service to get to work, doctors appointments, and other necessities," Legislator Dixon said.

Dixon arranged for a public hearing to be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 18, at Erie Community College's South Campus, Building 5 in Room 5102, located at 4041 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park. The hearing is about the NFTA's Transit Service Restructuring and Fare Study, which can be found on www.nfta.com.

"Families and individuals who need bus service should be given a fair opportunity to voice their concerns and let the NFTA know the bus line in their area is utilized," Dixon said. "One woman who contacted my office said she rides the bus from Marilla to downtown and has no other means for getting to work. She deserves the opportunity to tell the NFTA not to cut services in her area."

The possible cut would affect residents traveling to and from Gowanda, North Collins, Eden, Hamburg, as well as ECC, Hilbert College, McKinley Mall, and other locations.

Republican Caucus Minority Leader John J. Mills, District 13, and Legislator Dino Fudoli, District 5, support Dixon's efforts.

"The NFTA needs to recognize the importance of bus service to all residents in their service area," Legislator Mills said. "While I understand the NFTA's need to implement cost saving measures, it is pertinent that the NFTA continues to provide services to all who need it."

The Legislators encourage all residents affected by proposed cuts to attend the hearing and voice their opinion on the matter.

"I applaud Legislator Dixon's efforts to bring a public hearing to our constituents and provide them a venue to discuss the ramifications of these rumored cuts," Legislator Fudoli said.

Those unable to attend the public hearing can send comments to, transitstudy@nfta.com.

To reach Legislator Dixon, call 649-2640 or e-mail lynne.dixon@erie.gov.

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