Eagle Transit to add minivan, new bus garage

Eagle Transit recently was awarded a $34,285 grant from the Montana Department of Transportation for a minivan conversion as part of its annual capital assistance program.

David Polansky, program manager, said the dollars will purchase an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant minivan capable of carrying six people with disabilities.

"We asked for a minivan to be more economical, or green, for carrying just a few riders," he said. "I didn't get all the vehicles I requested but this is a great addition to our fleet."

This grant is independent of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act capital awards. Through that program, Eagle Transit received $980,000 for a new bus barn.

"We've outgrown our current facility," Polansky said. "With this, we can put all of our vehicles under a roof."

Eagle Transit plans to erect the new steel building next to the existing bus barn on Willow Glen Drive. Polansky said the new barn allows space for more operator maintenance and a bus washing facility.

"We could get started [building] this fall," he said.

These grants come at a time of expansion for Eagle Transit. Polansky said ridership was up by 1,000 people a month on the commuter routes to Whitefish and Columbia Falls as well as the city bus.

The jump in people riding the bus comes at a traditionally less busy time for the public transportation system. Winter weather usually brings the biggest crowds on buses with after-school programs such as S.P.A.R.K. at The Summit and fewer people on vacation.

Riders break down statistically to 41 percent general public, 35 percent people with disabilities and 24 percent senior citizens.

Eagle Transit has worked hard in the last year to change the perception that it just serves the last two groups.

"My general public ridership is increasing, which is exactly what we want it to do," he said. "Of course, we're continuing to provide excellent service to the senior and disabled ridership."

Polansky doesn't know what has fueled the increase in volume.

He speculates that the recession has played a role along with an increased awareness that Eagle Transit serves everyone.

Reporter Candace Chase may be reached at 758-4436 or by e-mail at cchase@dailyinterlake.com.