AATA Board takes action toward implementing countywide transportation vision

At last night’s meeting, the board adopted resolutions affirming AATA’s commitment to develop a countywide transportation plan and a new vision statement for the public transportation organization.

The resolutions were developed in support of a recent presentation by AATA CEO Michael Ford to the board recommending four measures designed to position AATA to take a leadership role in moving toward countywide service.

AATA Board Chair Paul Ajegba said, “Approval of these agreements is a significant step in achieving our long-held goal to implement services countywide. Our vision provides a framework and focus for AATA to reach out to the community and develop a consensus on what transportation services are needed and desired by people throughout the county.”

Ford had recommended that AATA take the following measures:
Adopt a vision statement – A mission statement and a set of values had previously been approved.
Reorganize AATA under Act 196 – Ford had explained that this would prepare AATA to administer funding for expanded service, including countywide transit service and a portion of commuter rail operating costs.
Move forward on development of a countywide transit system – Ford recommended using a consultant to guide this development.
Integrate transit projects using the expertise of staff and consultants – Ford had reported on the benefits of integrating AATA’s priorities with other transit initiatives.

AATA will retain a consultant to get the community involved in creating a community vision for countywide transportation and identifying the levels of service best suited to each area of the county.

“We want the Washtenaw County community to get the biggest return possible for their investment in public transportation,” Ajegba said. “Whether people use public transportation or not, everyone benefits from its presence in the community. Homeowners are able to retain value in their properties, business owners benefit when public transportation brings customers and employees to their locations, seniors and individuals with disabilities can enjoy increased mobility and parents can count on transit for a safe ride for their children.”

Further research is also being done on the advisability of reorganization of AATA as an Act 196 authority. In order to make the best, most informed decision, AATA has invited CEOs from other Michigan transit systems that have operated as Act 55 or Act 196 authorities, or who have made the transition from one to the other, while seeking millages, as well as legal consultants, to share their experiences. This discussion will take place as a special public meeting to be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8 at AATA’s main office, 2700 South Industrial Highway in Ann Arbor.

Questions may be directed to info@theride.org or 734.973.6500.

The latest information on AATA routes, schedules and detours is available at 734.996.0400 and on the AATA Routes and Schedules page.