A dedication and ribbon-cutting marked the completion of Springfield’s new Transit Center. The $4.4 million facility was paid for in part with $3.6 million in federal funds. It replaces a crowded bus transfer station that was built in 1984.
CU general manager, Scott Miller, said it will add to the improvements being made downtown.
"When you think about all the great things--the new housing, new employers, the redevelopment of a lot of buildings in the downtown area and the development of the West Meadows area--we're right on the edge of that. We're glad to be a part of downtown, and we believe this new transit center is going to be a fantastic asset for the community," he said.
The center features a climate-controlled waiting area, a ticket window, ticket vending machine and more. It’s bicycle friendly, with bike lanes, storage lockers, bike stands and a bicycle repair station—something Ozark Greenways director Terry Whaley is excited about. He said the new facility encourages multi-modal transportation.
"So, you can live a few miles from here on the outskirts. If you can bicycle to a bus stop, you can get on a bus, which will be equipped with a bicycle rack. You can then get yourself downtown. Here at the new transit facility the have secure bike lockers, bike racks and also a repair station for minor adjustments and stuff to your bicycle should you have a problem on the street or on the road," he said.
Scott Miller said the new Transit Center is designed to meet the needs of current and future CU bus riders.
"With more space, improved amenities and new technology," he said.
The new bus transfer station will open Sunday (5/8). The public can tour it tonight (5/6) from 6 to 10 as part of First Friday Art Walk.
