With its B-Line service to the Bellefonte area now discontinued, CATA is transferring two of its on-demand vehicles to Centre County Transportation Services at no charge.
The B-Line to Bellefonte and Benner Township ended on Monday as both municipalities decided to not renew their CATA contracts following a stalemate over cost increases, following in the steps of nearby Spring Township a year earlier. The transfer of two CATA Go vehicles aims to provide additional capacity for Bellefonte riders who might now opt to use the county’s service, according to a news release.
Bellefonte Council agreed in May to partner with Centre County Transportation Services and subsidize rides for borough residents who do not already qualify for free or reduced fares on the county’s on-demand, door-to-door transportation program. For the Bellefonte Borough residents, general public fares for county transportation will be $5 per trip. Individuals with disabilities or receiving medical assistance pay $4.25 per trip, and residents aged 60 and older ride for free.
The former CATA Go vehicles to be transferred to the county are at the end of their federally mandated service life but “remain in excellent condition,” and PennDOT has approved the transfer, according to the release.
“CATA acknowledges Centre County Transportation’s commitment to serving the Borough of Bellefonte and their dedication to maintaining transportation services for former CATA riders,” the authority wrote. “This is especially important following the recent decision by the Bellefonte Borough and the Township of Benner to withdraw from the CATA system. The additional fleet capacity will assist in accommodating any unforeseen demand for services within the county.”
Riders who previously used the B-Line should now contact the county transportation office at 814-355-6807 to book trips in and around the Bellefonte area. Rides must be reserved by 2 p.m. the day prior to travel, and trips usually will be shared with other passengers.
“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,” CATA CEO David Rishel said in a statement. “Despite our efforts to sustain these services, the decision by these municipalities not to renew their contracts has regrettably led to this outcome.”
