Projects
SARTA is always working to improve the service it provides to its passengers and to Stark County. Here are some of the projects we are working on currently:
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) – During the first part of 2012, SARTA will finish installation of the first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facility in Stark County. Upon completion, SARTA will replace 50% of its fleet with CNG buses that produce 23% lower greenhouse gas emissions and focus on using domestic fuels. In addition, the switch to CNG will allow SARTA to reduce fuel costs by $300,000 per year.
Transporting Stark County Back to Work - SARTA currently provides over 2.4 million rides ever year to work, school medical appointments and for a variety of critical needs. Despite these efforts, a great transportation need still remains here in Stark County. Through discussion in the community with riders, citizens and local non-profits we realize that SARTA must do more to reach out to those who are still suffering the effects from devastatingly high joblessness rates.
Despite some turnaround in the economy, Stark County is still facing an over 8% unemployment rate, just slightly above the national average. Many of these individuals face barriers to work, but the one that is most often repeated is transportation. Due to low-income and job loss these individuals cannot afford transportation to seek employment or reach new employment.
Communications System – Grant funding has become available that will allow an upgrade to our entire transit fleet over the next 2 years with an updated radio and GPS system. Among its many features, it will enable us to better communicate with our customers online, through text and phone about the location of buses and any delays. In addition, a new trip planner will be added to the website for easier navigation of the SARTA route system.
Mahoning Road Corridor - This $19 million capital investment project will provide vital improvements from Mahoning Road NE from Harmont Avenue to Maple Avenue. Renovations include infrastructure replacement (streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, traffic signalization, storm drainage, street pavement and traffic signage); overhead utilities; street lighting; and other enhancements including landscaping, street furnishing and signage.
Private investments and economic development strategies for this project include:
- New business
- Commitment of 81 new jobs contingent upon project
- Business renovations and expansions
- Property acquisitions for a major capital facility
- Exterior grant reward program
- Down payment assistance program
- Development of an overlay district
- Targeted clean up and code enforcement
Veteran’s Projects - November 2011, SARTA received over $300,000 in federal grant money to create a coordinated program that will create access to transportation for every Veteran in Stark County. As part of this program, SARTA will be upgrading its Proline system to include easier trip booking and scheduling notification system.
