Joseph Baker, RADAR, presented an updated Mountain Express bus schedule and explained how and when to use the bus to residents at the Scott Hill Retirement Community, Thursday, June 2.
Baker explained that The Mountain Express has been in operation for about 15 years, serving Covington, Clifton Forge, and Iron Gate. It operates from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, M-F. The fare is $1.00 but it has been operating for free since the onset of COVID-19. “It’s free right now,” said Baker. And we want to keep it that way as long as we can.” Whenever the fare is reinstated, Baker advised that all would be notified.
“It’s a blessing that it is free,” said Pandora Morst, a Scott Hill Resident of two years.
There were several questions on varied pick up and drop off points, off the regular scheduled routes. There were also some very specific questions on routes as there are now two buses rather than one.
When asked if there were any plans for operating on a limited schedule on Saturdays. “Everything we do is based on the localities and what they tell us to do, because they are the ones who ultimately pay the bill,” responded Baker. He advised that all requests for changes to services be directed to local government representatives, city/town managers, and/or the Alleghany County Administrator.
The two buses operate at one and a half hour intervals and the capacity limit is currently at five, to allow for social distancing.
Some complained that they were unable to walk the very long distances between some of the stops due to handicaps and disabilities. They asked whether exceptions could be made to allow courtesy and flag stops to accommodate these customers.
In answer, Baker explained that Clifton Forge and Alleghany County won’t allow courtesy and flag stops so as not to impede traffic. “For example, our drivers are not allowed to drop customers at the front door to Kroger. Instead, they must pull into a handicap parking space to allow customers to disembark,” explained Baker. However, “Covington will permit these courtesy and flag stops in safe spots”, added Baker.
Baker provided forms to those who want to request courtesy and flag stops be permitted for those with disabilities that won’t allow them to walk the great lengths to some of the bus stops. These forms can be downloaded from www.radartransit.org or requested via telephone (800) 964-5707; email at radar@radartransit.org, or mail at PO Box 13825, Roanoke, VA 24037-3825
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