I know that many of you (including myself) have been concerned that the AATA might need to cut bus service from Ypsi and Ypsi Township because these areas will no longer be able to pay for service with general fund dollars.

So I’m grateful to see that a solution is being proposed by AATA’s new Director, Michael Ford.  It will be discussed tonight at the AATA Board Meeting, 6:30pm, AATA Headquarters on 2700 S. Industrial.

In tonight’s Board Packet on pages 70-72, Ford outlines the challenge of cutting any service from Ypsi and Ypsi township and proposes the following solution:  Some of the American Recovery and Rehabilitation Act (ARRA) Funds can now be directed to operation of bus service.  Mr. Ford would like “to discuss using a portion of the funds allocated to AATA to bridge the gap between the beginning of the fiscal year and the implementation of service reductions.”

So what I think this means is that the AATA is going to try to use these funds so that service does not have to be cut this year.  But I am not 100% sure because the wording in the resolution is a little fuzzy to me.

But it looks like everyone understands the importance of retaining service to Ypsi and Ypsi Township.

If you feel the same, please contact the AATA and let them know, contact your City Council or Township rep, or make a public contact at an AATA Board Meeting.