SAGINAW, MI — In the face of rising costs and the lowest state transit funding levels in Michigan’s modern history, the STARS Board of Directors has approved preliminary cost-saving measures to address the budget shortfall. These proposed changes are not yet final, and STARS is calling on riders and community members to participate in a public hearing and complete an online survey to help shape the final decisions.
The meeting is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, at the downtown Rosa Parks Transit Operations Center for bus operations.
Like many transit agencies across the state, Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services is navigating an unprecedented financial challenge. STARS must make tough decisions to be able to cover expenses.
Proposed service changes Include:
- Fare hikes boosted to $1.50, up from $1, or 75 cents for seniors and the disabled, up from the previous 50 cents. These increases restore the pre-covid charges from 2020.
- Close Wednesday evening service hours at 8 p.m. instead of the existing 9 p.m.
STARS Director Amy Bidwell said, “Like our riders, we need to cut costs so we can cover our bills. We know these are difficult changes, and we’re not making them lightly. That’s why we’re asking our riders and the public to give us feedback before anything is made final.”
Persons not able to attend in person may send written comments to Jamie Forbes, director of external affairs, 615 Johnson, Saginaw, MI 48607, message the STARS facebook page, or email info@saginaw-stars.com.
To ensure broad input, Saginaw Transit has also launched an online survey, available at https://form.jotform.com/251144722799161. The survey will remain open until June 13th.
Input gathered through both the hearing and the survey will be reviewed by the STARS Board before any final decisions are made later this summer. Changes are anticipated to be effective in October.
