OSHTEMO (WKZO-AM) — WKZO News has learned that negotiations are underway to continue operations on Metro Transit’s West Main Route in Oshtemo Township after the city-owned bus system is handed over to a new transportation authority this fall.
It was a route that Oshtemo Township opted not to continue when new taxing units were established to support the authority’s operations. A side-deal was struck to keep the buses running to Kalamazoo Valley Community College in Texas Township. President Linda Teeter says that’s what the sort of arrangement they are attempting to negotiate now in Oshtemo.
Talks are underway with township and Meijer officials to find alternative funding for the route.
Expanded service on the county’s line-haul buses begins on Sept. 6.
Metro will be adding Sunday service, running routes later at night and sending more buses out on their busiest routes.
A community forum explaining the improved services and other route changes will be held tonight from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Metro Transit offices on North Rose Street in Kalamazoo.
