December 27, 2022
Mayor Malik D. Evans announced a
first-of-its-kind snow-removal partnership with Regional Transit Service and
Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), which will clear snow from 85 prioritized
bus stop and shelter locations in the city of Rochester.
The initiative was designed to reduce
weather-related barriers so city transit riders can commute to work, attend
medical appointments, shop, and conduct other personal and professional
activities without the worry of snow hazards at the bus stop.
“This is a unique collaboration that will improve
the experience and safety of those who rely on public transportation during the
winter months,” said Mayor Evans. “In addition, this program allows the City to
expand our partnership with Center for Employment Opportunities, providing new
jobs to those seeking a second chance.”
The Mayor's Office of Violence Prevention, which
supports several programs to engage and employ individuals who are at-risk for
violence, will fund the Winter 2022-2023 snow removal initiative’s estimated
cost of $66,400. The City partners with Center for Employment Opportunities to screen,
hire, train, and support formerly incarcerated residents who will work to help
improve the quality of life for RTS riders.
“One of the biggest challenges RTS customers
face in the winter months is navigating snowy sidewalks and bus stops when they
need to catch the bus,” said RTS Deputy CEO and Incoming CEO Miguel Velázquez.
“This partnership will make it easier for our customers to access the transit
system and inspire others to get involved and help us grow the program. I thank
Mayor Evans, Commissioner Perrin and the team at the City of Rochester, as well
as Jarmani Dozier from the Center for Employment Opportunities, for their
partnership on this important program.”
RTS identified the 85 bus stops based on average
daily ridership and the number of potential riders who rely on wheelchairs or
face other mobility challenges. Click here for a list of bus stops impacted >>
The pilot program will run through April 2023. The City
will assess the progress of this initiative with the hopes of extending the
partnership next year.
A interactive map is now available which shows the locations of the 85 RTS bus stops included in the City/RTS partnership to clear snow from RTS bus stops and shelters. The map allows transit riders to find the closest plowed stop to their location, check which route(s) each bus stop serves, and links to the RTS website so riders can find bus schedules:
Bus Stop Map
Full Announcement Video