McCook public transit system honored by feds

McCOOK, Nebraska -- The McCook public transit system was honored recently by the Federal Transit Authority for having only one vehicle, yet being responsible for the largest increase in riders in the state of Nebraska.

The McCook system received the "Award of Excellence" from the Federal Transit Administration Region VII at the Four State Mid West Transit Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on Aug. 5, 2013.

The award was presented for the highest increase in transit passenger ridership among rural transit providers in Nebraska, with only one vehicle, during the 2011-12 fiscal year.

McCook increased their number of public transit riders by 712 when compared to the year prior.

Heritage Senior Center Director Sue Chipman said the increase was due to an exemplary performance from her public transit staff members.

"I attribute the increase in ridership to the McCook Public Transit's dispatcher, Donna Blake; the full time driver, Diane Clark; and the part time driver, Eldon Parde. These three employees are very professional, caring individuals who know their clients by first name and provide excellent service to each person using the transit system," said Chipman.

The City of McCook Public Transit provides transportation to people of all ages within the city limits of McCook. The fee to ride the bus one-way is $2 per trip.

Appointments for a ride can be made by calling (308) 345-6098.

The McCook Public Transit receives funding from the federal government, state government, City of McCook and fares.