HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Huntsville is making way for a brand new downtown transit center - the hub for busses serving riders throughout the city. The new hub also means some changes to bus routes. Route 56 will begin Tuesday September 3, the same day of the center opens. It will expand service in South Huntsville. There have also been some changes to routes 2 - Patton Road, 5 - Byrd Spring road, and 6 - Jones Valley.
Huntsville's Director of Parking and Transit Quisha Bryant explained that this new facility is important because the city is still growing. "As we continue that growth, we want to make sure that the center that's serving our riders meets those needs. We'll have the bays to accommodate any new routes. We've included many security features so that our riders feel safe and secure while they're utilizing the service. We've also made sure that riders who have any disability will be accommodated as well." April Jordan is one of those riders. she deals with mobility challenges and could use a little extra accommodation. "You know, you have easier access, and they'll lower the bus for you. you know, what not."
James Roberts is another Huntsville resident looking forward to a change that will make his life a lot easier. "It is difficult being disabled now. This is the first day I've been on a cane. I've been on a walker and getting in and out of the bus sometimes a little bit difficult. But hopefully the new station may make it a lot easier. When you're on a walker, you know nothing go down and basically almost jump off the bus." Others are simply looking forward to more comfort and expanded service. Folks like Takisha Young. "I'm having some automotive issues and the bus goes right by our house. And so it helps me, like what the route number is, and I can catch the bus to do what I have to do during the day."
The center said the facility's 14 bus bays ensure there's enough space for the fleet and for riders to board and unload. The bays are 45 feet in length, allowing bus arrivals and departures in a more convenient setting.