Monroe County’s resolution to discontinue Conch Join on Aug.15, is a step backward for our group. This micro-transit service offered over 65,000 rides in its first 12 months, with 85% of journeys taken by locals and half of them for work. It was a lifeline for staff and residents, providing a glimpse of what a greater transit future may seem like.
The county cites monetary issues, however the price — $426,000 yearly — is a small value to pay for a service that decreased visitors congestion, eased parking points and supported native companies. Conch Join wasn’t good, but it surely was progress. Its discontinuation leaves us with no viable different and undermines the county’s personal transit targets.
Residents and staff more and more dwell outdoors Key West, dealing with lengthy commutes and excessive prices of automotive possession. Public transit is important to addressing these challenges, but the county has didn’t assist different struggling providers just like the Decrease Keys Shuttle and Workforce Categorical.
We want management that invests in options, not cuts them. Conch Join was a step towards a seamless, dependable and reasonably priced transit system — one that would ease visitors, enhance air high quality and assist native companies thrive.
Let’s not let this progress slip away. Monroe County should prioritize public transit and discover artistic methods to fund these important providers.
Thanks,
Chris Hamilton