Kokomo Sees Jump in Trolley Ridership
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe City of Kokomo says trolley ridership increased more than 35 percent in 2014. City officials say increased enrollment at both IU Kokomo and Ivy Tech have led to steady increases in the number of student riders.
February 16, 2015
News Release
KOKOMO, Ind. – Ridership on Kokomo’s City Line trolleys in 2014 increased by more than 35 percent over the previous year. Although nearly 297,000 passengers boarded the trolleys in 2013, that number was eclipsed by the 403,000 riders in 2014.
“City Line helps ensure people have access to jobs, schools, grocery stores and doctor appointments regardless of where they live,” said Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight.
“By expanding the routes, the city has demonstrated its commitment to providing our citizens with reliable public transportation.”
In 2013, the City of Kokomo added three new lines, more than doubled the number of stops and installed new bus shelters. The City Line is the largest, free-to-ride, fixed-route bus system in Indiana.
The jump in ridership came despite last winter’s severe weather.
“2014 started off rough for us,” said Tammy Corn, City Transportation Director. “But a strong economy pushed demand for public transit led by commuters heading to and from work and school.”
Enrollment increases at IU Kokomo and Ivy Tech have led to steady increases in the number of student riders. For the last half 2014, City Line averaged more than 1,800 daily riders.
Passenger counts have increased every year since the City of Kokomo introduced the free transportation service in 2010.
The trolleys operate from 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. A detailed map of routes and schedules can be found online at www.kokomompo.com.
Source: City of Kokomo