The Estuary Transit District's 9 Town Transit has been awarded $325,000 in capital funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), commonly referred to as the economic stimulus. The funding was recently announced by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, and is a 100% federal grant with no matching funds required.

The funding will be used to enhance public transit services in the Estuary region. 9 Town Transit plans to purchase two new larger buses for its popular Shoreline Shuttle route to increase capacity. The current buses frequently are filled to capacity, leaving some passengers to wait for the next bus. The new buses will also include features to improve passenger comfort and security. Delivery is expected by Spring of 2010.

Bus stop enhancements will be another focus of the ARRA funds. 9 Town Transit will install bus stops along all four of its routes to more clearly identify bus stops and routing. In addition, some higher traffic bus stops will receive covered bus shelters to provide seating and protection from the weather. The improvements will greatly enhance the bus riding experience in the Estuary region, with installation expected to be completed by fall of 2010.

The funding will also allow 9 Town Transit to upgrade its scheduling software for its Dial-A-Ride and off-route services. 9 Town Transit plans to purchase a system that will improve efficiency, on-time performance, and trip appointment accuracy. Plans include using real-time GPS data to more accurately and effectively dispatch vehicles.

A new website is also being developed with the use of ARRA funding. 9 Town Transit plans to have a state-of-the-art website, giving visitors improved access to public transit information in a user-friendly format. 9 Town Transit plans to add features such as online ticket purchases, interactive maps, and online chat to answer questions.

We are thrilled to be receiving these stimulus funds. They will go a long way in improving our ability to provide transit services to the Estuary region and our citizen's access to it said Joseph Comerford, Executive Director of the Estuary Transit District.

The Estuary Transit District provides public transit service to Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Killingworth, Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook through its 9 Town Transit service. Connections are provided to New Haven, Middletown, Hartford and New London/Norwich bus services and Shoreline East Commuter Rail. Route maps and schedules are available online at www.9TownTransit.com or by calling 9 Town Transit at 860-510-0429.