Laura Peters

lpeters@newsleader.com

STAUNTON - Three local planning organizations are looking for public input on the possibility of a commuter bus service along the Interstate 81 and Interstate 64 corridors.

The Harrisonburg-Rockingham, Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro and Charlottesville-Albemarle metropolitan planning organizations are seeking public input for the possible public transportation expansion between Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro and Charlottesville, a release said.

"In a public survey completed as a component of the recently adopted Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Transit Development Plan, respondents referenced the unmet need for transit service in the I-81 and I-64 corridors connecting Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro and Charlottesville," said Nancy Gourley, transit program coordinator for the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission.

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Specifically, people wanted to be connected jobs, colleges and universities, medical services and Amtrak and Greyhound services, Gourley said.

Now with funding from all three metropolitan planning organizations (MPO's), a study is underway. In addition to the three MPO's, a steering committee representing the three MPO’s, the four area transit agencies and the two major universities have assembled to work with the consultant to guide the project, Gourley said.

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The study includes: a survey of commuters and park and ride lot users, stakeholder outreach, land use and population analysis — with a particular emphasis on employment and commuting patterns. The study will also look at the demand estimation, development of service and organizational and funding alternatives, a release said.

"A bus service would provide an alternative to the single occupancy vehicle for commuters in this corridor, alleviate some of the congestion and provide mobility for those who cannot or choose not to drive," Gourley said.

Commuters and residents can take a survey by going to www.surveymonkey.com/r/I81_I64 until May 1.

Follow Laura Peters@peterslaura and@peterpants. You can reach her at lpeters@newsleader.com or 213-9125.