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A Significant Impact

For decades, transportation programs in Connecticut have been funded by a tax on gasoline and diesel fuels that go into the Special Transportation Fund. The 25 cent gas tax hasn’t changed since 2000, while vehicles have become more fuel efficient, all resulting in a decrease in revenues.

Without action from the legislature, the Connecticut Department of Transportation warns that there won’t be enough funding coming into the Special Transportation Fund to cover the expenses of the state’s transportation system. As a result, 9 Town Transit would see a 15 percent reduction in funding in 2018 and a 50 percent reduction of funding in 2019.

9 Town Transit is warning that a 15 percent reduction of state funding beginning July 1, 2018, would result in changes such as fare increases, elimination or reduction of bus routes, and reduced Dial-a-Ride service. A 50 percent reduction of state funding beginning July 1, 2019, would result in changes such as additional fare increases, elimination of most bus routes, elimination of Saturday service, and elimination of Dial-a-Ride service.

These changes would have a significant impact on the more than 100,000 trips made each year on these services. Hundreds of area residents would be stranded, and unable to get to work, school, and medical appointments.

9 Town Transit is encouraging transit users and supporters to let their state representative and senator know how important 9 Town Transit, Shoreline East, or other public transit services are to them. More information about the possible service reductions and ways to help prevent the funding cuts can be found at www.9towntransit.com/fundtransit.

Joseph Comerford, Executive Director

Estuary Transit District