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Port Authority Riders Get Look At Overhaul Plans

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Jun 3, 2009 1:30 pm US/Eastern

Port Authority Riders Get Look At Overhaul Plans

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― The first in a series of open houses is being held today for Port Authority riders to get a first look at three plans to overhaul the way the agency is running its buses and trolleys.

The Port Authority says they are putting the plans out there for riders to find out which way works for them and which way would save the agency money down the line.

"The biggest idea that we're getting from people is that they want us to improve transit service, and they want to get from point A to point B in the easiest way and the fastest way possible," said Jim Ritchie, Port Authority spokesperson. "That's what we're trying to do with these services.

Two proposals, Better Radial and Better Radial-Plus, call for widespread changes to service throughout the country.

The other is a grid plan that would rely on express buses to bring riders closer to town, then get them on to feeder buses to get from point to point.

However, the Port Authority says it's not sure about using that option.

"Our topography and the make-up of Allegheny County don't really allow a grid system to work well," said Ritchie. "We're not pursuing that. Yet, we're still showing people that we pursued the idea and studied it. We're interested to see what they have to say about that, too."

The Port Authority is not under any mandate from the state to make changes, but finding these efficiencies is key to maintaining the dedicated funding stream that was set forth in Act 44, the legislation that helps fund the Port Authority through various initiatives.

Today's open house is happening at the Omni William Penn Hotel through 8 p.m. There will be another meeting Monday at 2 p.m. in Alumni Hall on the University of Pittsburgh.

Stay with KDKA for the latest details.

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