WAYNESBURG — The Mountain Line Transit board approved a change to the Waynesburg stop, adding approximately six minutes to the route.
The decision came after the announcement of plans to sell the airport property, where the longstanding Waynesburg stop will relocate to the nearby Walmart. This has prompted Mountain Line officials to find a new location for passengers.
“Most of the comments we received were positive,” Mountain Line CEO Marie Smith said. “One rider mentioned the new location would be harder to walk to, but we are reaching out to make sure he will still be able to access the stop safely.”
The nearby Sheetz, which is closer to the original stop, was initially considered before the business declined the request due to concerns of loitering. Walmart then agreed to host the stop and will be offering amenities such as a bench for waiting.
“I think having it at Walmart may actually be more convenient for people,” stated board member Stephanie Hunt. “They can take care of their grocery shopping on the way home. It could be a win-win.”
Officials estimated that the new stop will roughly be a quarter-mile away from the original location. While the walk will be uphill and lighting concerns exist, there were no other alternative locations to be considered without drastically changing travel times.
Along with the relocation, Grey Line’s schedule will be updated in reflection to the timing change. Most times will shift slightly earlier to accommodate the changes. These changes will have monitoring to ensure passengers are not left behind.
Mountain Line plans to update their schedules at all affected stops. The website and social media will also share prior to the changes.
Those concerned about the changes can attend the next board meeting scheduled for Aug. 20.
“This was a necessary adjustment, and we have tried to make it as smooth as possible for everyone,” Smith said. “We will continue to be in touch with riders to make sure it is working as planned.”
