XI. MASS TRANSIT AGENCY

ROLE AND DUTIES

The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency provides affordable and cost effective transportation services for the County of Hawaii. These services include bus service, shared ride taxi service, and ride matching services.

STAFF

The agency is staffed by five exempt employees:

1 Transit Administrator

1 Transit Assistant

1 Clerk

2 Automotive Mechanics

Bus Drivers are provided under a contract with Hawaii Tran Zit Company, while shared ride taxi services are provided by Percy's Taxi, UncleÿGeorge Taxi, Bob's Taxi, and Paradise Taxi.

BUDGET

Total expenditures in fiscal year 1995 96 amounted to $1,017,562, an eight percent (8%) increase compared to fiscal year 1994 95. Increases in shared ride taxi usage and additional bus service for the districts of Pahoa and Waikoloa contributed to the higher expenditures.

HIGHLIGHTS

Ridership continued to increase, amounting to 239,377 passenger trips, a 10ÿpercent increase from fiscal year 1994 95, and a 25 percent increase compared to fiscal year 1993 94. Additional bus service to Pahoa and Waikoloa contributed to the increase.

Bus shelters were constructed in Ookala and Paukaa with the assistance of community groups. The shelters will provide comfort to riders and students waiting for buses.

FUTURE PROGRAMS

A transportation plan for the County of Hawaii will be undertaken this year. The purpose of the plan is to integrate the various transportation providers and to provide a more comprehensive transportation system.

The agency has prepared specifications for seven new buses as part of its vehicle replacement program. The buses will be accessible and replace seven older buses in the County's fleet.