Elderly, disabled residents say proposed Metro Transit changes put them in danger

Amanda Quintana by Amanda Quintana

Metro Transit is proposing a list of changes to their routes that would go into effect in August. The possible removal of a Route 21 stop on Londonderry Drive has local residents worried for their safety.

“All of our neighbors, we use this bus a lot. We depend on it,” said resident Kim Owens.

The bus stop Metro Transit wants to remove is right in front of Dryden Terrace, a housing complex for elderly and disabled residents.

Metro Transit estimates 75 passengers board the bus at that stop each day.

Concerned Dryden Terrace residents said they were not notified that the bus stop might be taken away. Owens saw a notice at a transfer station and organized a newsletter to let others know.

“It’s very convenient for me to go from my front door to the bus stop to get everywhere I need to go,” said resident Kim Gourley.

If the proposal is passed, a new stop would be created on Northport Drive, about a block and a half away from Dryden Terrace. Passengers would need to walk up and down an inclined street to get there and back.

“If I had to get off the bus with a shopping cart a block and a half away from here, trying to lug it up a hill, I could slip and fall and injure myself,” said resident Victor Hawkins.

Metro Transit is welcoming feedback on the proposal.

“These are proposals only. They’re not a done deal,” said Mick Rusch, Metro Transit marketing and customer service manager.

Rusch said the reason for the proposed removal of the stop is because cars parked on both sides of Londonderry Drive cause the bus to be delayed.

Those affected can give their opinions through an online survey or at a public hearing on April 11 at 6 p.m. at the City-County Building.

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