With more use, WRTA faces cost hazards

YOUNGSTOWN — The Western Reserve Transit Authority’s September expansion to a countywide service plan is paying off in ridership increases.

The authority originally estimated the expansion would bring an additional 50,000 riders for 2010. In the first five months of expanded service, however, 100,000 additional riders have taken the bus compared to the same period in 2009.

But the expansion brings concerns, said WRTA President Michael Bosela.

The new service means increased costs amid fluctuating sales-tax revenue.

Officials are pondering how to control costs and stay within their new budget.

Historically, the Mahoning transit system is no stranger to funding problems.

WRTA’s expenditures in 2006 were $1.5 million more than its revenue. The transit authority cut service 60 percent to compensate for this deficit.

Passage of a 0.25-percent sales tax in November 2008 has provided more than $3 million in additional revenue compared to what property taxes generated. Services have expanded to include the connecting current routes, the creation of other routes and an extensive curb-to-curb service.

The transition was completed in September.

For the complete story, see Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com