Report on the Transition of CATA B-Line Service to Centre County Transportation Services

Overview of Service Discontinuation and Vehicle Transfer

The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) has discontinued its B-Line service to the Bellefonte area, including Benner Township, following the decision by both municipalities not to renew their contracts due to cost increase disputes. This move follows a similar decision by Spring Township a year prior.

In response, CATA is transferring two of its on-demand CATA Go vehicles to Centre County Transportation Services at no charge. These vehicles, although at the end of their federally mandated service life, remain in excellent condition and have received approval from PennDOT for the transfer.

Partnership and Fare Structure for Bellefonte Residents

Bellefonte Borough Council has agreed to partner with Centre County Transportation Services to subsidize rides for residents who do not qualify for free or reduced fares under the county’s on-demand, door-to-door transportation program.

• General public fares: $5 per trip
• Individuals with disabilities or receiving medical assistance: $4.25 per trip
• Residents aged 60 and older: Free rides

Service Continuity and Rider Information

The transfer of vehicles aims to increase capacity for Bellefonte riders who may now use the county’s transportation services. Riders who previously used the B-Line are advised to contact Centre County Transportation Services at 814-355-6807 to book trips within the Bellefonte area. Reservations must be made by 2 p.m. the day before travel, and rides are typically shared with other passengers.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This transition aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and good health and well-being (SDG 3) by ensuring continued access to affordable, accessible, and inclusive transportation services for all community members, including vulnerable populations.

1. SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: The partnership supports sustainable urban mobility by maintaining essential public transportation services and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
2. SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Subsidized fares and free rides for seniors and individuals with disabilities promote equitable access to transportation.
3. SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Accessible transportation facilitates access to healthcare and social services, enhancing overall community well-being.

Official Statements

CATA acknowledged Centre County Transportation’s dedication to maintaining transportation services for former CATA riders, highlighting the importance of additional fleet capacity to meet potential demand within the county.

CATA CEO David Rishel expressed regret over the service discontinuation, stating: “It is with great disappointment that we announce the conclusion of our services to Spring and Benner Townships and the Borough of Bellefonte, where we have proudly served the community for over a decade. Despite our efforts to sustain these services, the decision by these municipalities not to renew their contracts has regrettably led to this outcome.”

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article discusses public transportation services and their availability, which relates to making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The article highlights subsidized fares for residents with disabilities, medical assistance, and seniors, addressing equitable access to transportation.
3. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Access to transportation services can impact health by enabling access to medical facilities and social inclusion.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, disability or other status.
3. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential health-care services and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 11.2
   • Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, implied by the availability and capacity of transportation services like CATA and Centre County Transportation Services.
2. Indicator for SDG 10.2
   • Proportion of people with disabilities and older persons who have access to affordable and accessible transport services, implied by subsidized fares and free rides for seniors and disabled individuals.
3. Indicator for SDG 3.8
   • Access to health services facilitated by transportation availability, implied by the door-to-door on-demand transportation program that can assist people with medical needs.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: statecollege.com