Henry County is expected to receive federal funding to launch a new local bus service. The route will connect McDonough and Stockbridge.
The county applied for federal funds in fall 2021 to launch a new bus service. The Atlanta Regional Commission is recommending to award the funds pending ARC board approval in December 2022.
New Local Bus Service
The new bus service is a recommendation following the Henry County Transit Master Plan. The county adopted the master plan earlier this year. Specifically, the master plan recommended a 30-minute headway during peak periods and 60-minute headway during off-peak periods for the new service.
The expected local bus route forms a loop around McDonough — connecting locations such as the town square and county offices — before running to Stockbridge. The Stockbridge portion of the route runs along Patrick Henry Parkway, Rock Quarry Road and state route 138 terminating at the I-75 Park & Ride lot.
The new service could commence in early 2023 following final funding approval. The federal funding totals $4.8 million distributed evenly over three years. It requires a local match of 20%, or $400,000 annually. After fiscal year 2025, Henry County would be responsible for operational costs of the service.
Micro Transit
Following another recommendation of the transit master plan, Henry County has hired an app developer for micro transit. Micro transit is similar to ride-share services with on-demand rides available, but operated by a public transit agency.
In August, commissioners approved a contract with VIA Mobility for $156,800. Federal transit funds will pay for the work.
VIA Mobility is tasked with developing new software for the management of Henry County’s transit fleet and route scheduling. They also will look at a public app that could support micro transit services in the future.
Featured image shows local bus route between McDonough and Stockbridge. Photo credit Henry County.
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