Public Asked to Weigh in on Proposed Cuts to Rochester Public Transit

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The City of Rochester is considering a reduction of its transportation service. 

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A news release issued by the city on Friday says the proposed change of services are planned to be implemented in the spring and are aimed at improving the system’s “efficiency and reliability.” 

The news release also says city leaders will make final decisions after collecting input from the public. 

RPT Proposes Route Cutbacks to Begin This Spring

The proposed Rochester Public Transit (RPT) cut backs call for eliminating route 102, which services downtown Rochester and adjacent portions of northeast and southeast Rochester and route 505, which primarily serves northwest Rochester. 

Service to some of the stops on those routes would still be maintained by other routes, the proposal indicates.

Routes 409, 418, 101 and 206 have been marked for consolidation and enhanced frequency, frequency adjustments are planned on route 203. 

Officials are also proposing a transition of some routes from loop services to two-way service and a reduction of hours on weekends. The proposed changes come as RPT sees a decline in ridership. 

Rochester Public Transit Currently Not Operating Under Financially Sustainable Conditions

An agenda item taken up by the council during a listening session earlier this month says RPT is “operating under financial conditions that are not sustainable over the long term.” 

It also said the combination of reduced ridership, a need to the system’s coverage and an increase in local funding needed to operate the system has led to operating costs exceeding revenues. 

Listening Sessions Planned for Proposed RPT Changes

RPT is planning to hold multiple listening sessions next month. Virtual information sessions are planned from noon to 1 p.m. and from 8-9 p.m. on Monday, February 9. 

In-person sessions are scheduled to be held on February 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. at 125 Live and on February 11 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Sunset Terrace Elementary School. 

Community members can also provide feedback online.