UPDATE: The South Central Transit Authority has just announced significant changes to BARTA bus routes, effective January 5, 2024. These adjustments aim to enhance service reliability and improve on-time performance for commuters across the region.
Several key updates impact multiple routes, including:
– **Route 1** (Temple via Fifth Street Highway): The inbound and outbound time point at Fifth Street Highway and Crescent Avenue is eliminated. Adjusted time points are introduced to boost on-time performance.
– **Route 8** (Reiffton/Shelbourne Square/Birdsboro): Four additional trips to Birdsboro have been added between 12:50 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.. The 5:15 a.m. trip will no longer serve Boscov’s Distribution Center, with service shifted to the 7:15 a.m. trip to better accommodate employee schedules.
– **Route 9** (Grill/Kenhorst): New service to Berks Nature, located at 575 St. Bernardine St., is now approved for both inbound and outbound travel.
– **Route 10** (Brookline): Service to Shillington Plaza after 6:30 p.m. is approved for inbound travel only.
– **Route 14** (Wernersville via Sinking Spring): Trips marked with “A” will no longer serve Wernersville State Hospital from Womelsdorf.
– **Route 15** (Berkshire Mall): Times have been adjusted to enhance on-time performance. The route will now change at Park Road and Hill Avenue to improve safety for both customers and drivers.
– **Route 16** (Broadcasting Square): Similar adjustments as Route 15 are implemented, with additional service to R.M. Palmer Company on the last trip at 11:05 p.m..
– **Route 17** (Glenside/Airport/Berks Heim): Approved service to Tower Behavioral Health on inbound trips only, enhancing access for those in need of mental health services.
– **Route 22** (Lyon Station/East Penn Manufacturing-Deka): The route is extended from East Penn Manufacturing to Kutztown University for all trips, improving accessibility for students and workers alike.
These updates reflect BARTA’s commitment to improving transit services for the community. Commuters are encouraged to review the full schedule changes at bartabus.com to prepare for the upcoming adjustments.
Next Steps: Riders should stay informed about these changes and plan accordingly. The authorities have stated that these modifications are designed to meet the evolving needs of the community and improve overall transit efficiency.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Share this news with fellow commuters to keep everyone informed!
