By Gary Lee Stuber
Clay County now has a public bus service thanks to Tim Thomas, a former Clay County resident who now serves as CEO of the Mountain Transit Authority. County Commissioner Duane Legg hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday morning of Aug. 6 where MTA had a bus at the courthouse, and even a cake for anyone who wanted to participate.
“I am able to bring public transit into a community that there is a need. We are community oriented as a transit authority,” Tim says, “And just to bring it here it’s just a little bit of pride.” Tim would give those in attendance a ride, driving riders himself to Go-Mart and back. The bus, which is distinctive, has twelve comfortable seats. “Twelve and two,” Mike says from the driver’s seat, “twelve seats and space for two additional wheelchairs.” There is a wheelchair lift in the rear of the bus.
And while the bus service is designed to carry people to appointments, service contracts under MotiveCare state the service is also for any residents, regardless of status, age or anything else, who would love to take advantage of transportation.
Transportation to where?
“We are based out of Summersville, and we take busses into Summersville, Braxton, Fayetteville, or Montgomery. In Montgomery they can meet KRT busses into Kanawha County and beyond.” Mike says. For those with appointments, work, or for just shopping, the service is open to all riders.
The schedule is a work in progress. Medical demand is separate from regular public bus service. Right now, they will have one bus headed north to Braxton County and one bus southeast to Gauley Bridge. They have established a meet up with KRT in Montgomery but could in the future, if demand and negotiations with KRT are fruitful, meet KRT at Elkview at their schedule. That would open even more opportunities for Clay County residents in that region.
Commissioners Joyce Johnson and Duane Legg were present as well as Donna Salisbury, who has been a big supporter of the project. WSAZ Television News was also present and filmed the ribbon cutting.
This is an opportunity for local groups to schedule shopping trips, or perhaps lunch at Shoney’s in Summersville or even Chinese buffet at OK Chinese restaurant in the Oak Hill Shopping Center. And now Wal-Mart shopping is assessable to senior groups with a comfortable ride with friends there and back.
If you have a need for transportation, call MTA at 34-872-5872.
