Waiting for the bus in Santa Cruz County could get more frustrating than ever. At its meeting today, the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District will discuss cutting service 10-15 percent to overcome its budget deficit. The transit District has lost $1.6 million in sales tax revenue over the past year, while ridership has declined by 7.8 percent, meaning a $267,297 loss in revenue (plus a $93,000 hit because of declining paratransit numbers). In addition, state funds that would normally go to public transportation are being diverted to cover other looming budget gaps.
The dire situation was summed up by Metro Director Dene Bustichi, who said, “We’re not looking at improving things. We’re looking at trying to survive.” He is even considering slashing service to Scotts Valley, which is a bold move, since he is also a Councilman there.
Read More at the Santa Cruz Sentinel.
