We must save transit

The elimination of Lorain County Transit's fixed routes at the end of this year would be devastating for many in Lorain County, who depend on the buses for transportation.

Of the 300 jobs the county estimates will be lost as a result of the move, some certainly belong to individuals working here in Wellington but living elsewhere. Seniors and economically disadvantaged residents would also be seriously impacted without the buses to get to doctor appointments or the grocery store.

Oberlin city officials have had discussions with stakeholders since midsummer, when LCT announced earlier cuts, to brainstorm alternative transportation. The proposed "circulator bus" system, using church vans, is an interesting concept, although a number of issues would need to be addressed before it could be considered practical; and the concept would have to be adopted in every city and village in the county.

And while it would be helpful for getting folks around town, the circulator bus would not address the larger problem of getting people between the cities, villages, and townships as LCT currently does. Those workers coming in from out of town would still be left out in the cold.

We understand the county is working with the office of U.S. Representative Betty Sutton to divert unallocated federal funds for renovating the rail station in Elyria and use them for LCT operating expenses. The plan would have to be approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, but with jobs on the line, the possibility of approval would appear reasonable.

We would encourage village officials, residents, and impacted employees to contact Sutton's office and the offices of U.S. Rep. Marci Kaptur and senators George Voinovich and Sherrod Brown to urge their support of the plan.