Based on information presented to the Town Council by Valley Metro, a significant number of those surveyed about Fountain Hills transit service want access to the Valley-wide transit system.

However, based on about $60,000 a year available to the town for transit services, it is unlikely a program will stretch very far into the Valley.

The $60,000 is the amount the town expects to receive from LTAF (lottery revenues allocated for transportation by the state). That money from this past fiscal year is being used for this study by Valley Metro.

LTAF funding was swept by the Legislature for other expenses in the past, prompting Valley Metro representatives to caution that it is not guaranteed funding. However, the swept money was restored under court order.

According to Janet Strauss, transit study project manager for Valley Metro, the least expensive connector option would be $80,000 to $90,000 per year.

That option would extend a bus route out Shea Boulevard to the Target shopping center. The route currently ends at Mayo Clinic.

Running a bus route from Fountain Hills to connect with the Sycamore light rail station in Mesa, something 49 percent of those surveyed said they would use if available, would cost between $220,000 and $235,000 a year.

While the council Sept. 19 was not considering any action based on the Valley Metro presentation, discussion seemed to favor alternatives to improve or solidify service available to seniors and the disabled.

Strauss outlined a “coupons for cabs” program allowing participants to purchase up to $100 per month in taxi services. In spite of the name, the program has been upgraded from using coupons to an electronic fare card that can be renewed monthly or as needed.

The town would have the option of using its transit funding (LTAF funds can only be used for transportation- related expenses) to subsidize a portion of the cost of the fare cards for participants.

Strauss noted that Mesa subsidizes 70 percent of the cost, while other cities like Chandler, Gilbert and Tempe, cover 75 percent.

This proposal does leave potential transit users who do not qualify without any public transportation options.

Seniors and those with disabilities are a segment of the population where the town has focused its transit efforts. The volunteer Give-A-Lift program was established to fill the void when the county ended its van service in Fountain Hills.

Based on the town’s expected LTAF allocation at $60,000 year, the cab program could serve 5,000 to 5,500 trips per year, or 45 to 50 per month. That is total ridership with no consideration of individuals who ride numerous times.

Strauss pointed out that Coupons for Cabs is a considerably cheaper option from the town’s perspective than Dial-A-Ride.

Strauss also said the town could consider acquiring a van and operating its own transportation service. Senior Services would be responsible for operation and maintenance costs, administration and recruitment and retention of volunteer drivers.

This can offer service at fixed costs and provide flexibility in scheduling, she added.

Strauss said there are federal grant options for the purchase of a van, but they tend to be highly restrictive.

The council was urged by two residents, Dina Galassini and Linda Bordow, to be cautious in considering Valley Metro’s proposals to assure they will benefit the town and its residents.

Valley Metro will continue work on the transit study for the town and report again in December regarding development of short and long-range transit strategies for the town.