Metro Officials Want County's Ideas for Bus Service Cuts

The last in a series of public hearings to gather resident input on proposed changes to public transportation services throughout Santa Cruz County will happen at the Aptos Public Library at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.

The meetings include a brief presentation by Metro District officials on the proposals for changes that will go into effect on Sept. 15 throughout the county.

“We will do whatever people want,” said Carolyn Derwing, schedule analyst for Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District. “The more information we have the better, so we can make adjustments.”

The cuts are necessary because of declining revenue from state sales tax returns over the last four years. Public opinion is vital in making the best decision for the community, though, which is driving officials to ask for participation from residents. 

The Watsonville City Council discussed the cuts to South County service at its meeting Tuesday evening. City councilors expressed concerns about the transportation reductions but made no decision.

Metro is accepting public comment through June 10 via its website or by calling 425-8600. The Watsonville City Council may sponsor another public hearing about the cuts.

For more budget details, visit scmtd.com.

— Corinne Speckert contributed to this report.