FLAGSTAFF — Mountain Line is launching a comprehensive community outreach initiative aimed at planning the future of transit in Flagstaff.
As the community’s 10-year transit tax approved in 2016 that funds the city’s bus system approaches expiration, Mountain Line wants to engage the community in dialogue and decision-making about a potential extension and increase of this funding source in the November 2024 election.
The community outreach effort is designed to gauge Flagstaff residents’ preferences on the future of the transit tax. Input gathered will guide potential ballot language for a tax extension and increase, ensuring the continued efficiency and effectiveness of Flagstaff’s transit system.
Residents are encouraged to visit a new virtual meeting room at https://virtualeventroom.com/flagstaff-mountain-line/ to learn more about transit needs and share their priorities. This digital forum is accessible 24/7 until April 15.
Proposed improvements could include electrifying the bus fleet, expanding service hours, improving service frequency, bringing service to new areas, and reducing congestion while protecting the environment. Such enhancements would be made based on community feedback and support for a tax increase.
“Mountain Line is committed to fiscal responsibility, aiming to use taxpayer dollars as effectively as possible,” said Mountain Line CEO and General Manager Heather Dalmolin. “No decisions regarding the ballot will be made without comprehensive community input. This approach underscores Mountain Line’s commitment to transparency and the desire to incorporate public feedback into future transit planning.
“This is a pivotal moment for Flagstaff’s future,” Dalmolin said. “We stand at a crossroads where community involvement can significantly shape how we navigate and mitigate the impacts of growth through a robust and sustainable public transit system. We encourage every Flagstaff resident to participate in this important conversation.”
The public’s input is crucial in determining any potential ballot language and the scope of what taxpayers will be asked to consider in November. Flagstaff residents are strongly encouraged to visit https://virtualeventroom.com/flagstaff-mountain-line/ to provide their feedback by April 15.
Mountain Line is the transit agency in northern Arizona operating fixed route bus service on nine routes, paratransit service, vanpool, and seasonal Mountain Express service to Arizona Snowbowl. Established in 2001, Mountain Line has grown into a system that employs more than 100 people and transports nearly 2 million riders a year. For more information, visit mountainline.az.gov