BRATS + WAVE oneday BART?

Having lived in San Francisco for a while and only used public transit or my 2 feet and now living back on the Gulf Coast, I have been a long time commuter from Mobile Bay's Easter Shore to MidTown Mobile. I have often dreamed of a public transit system across Mobile Bay.

Finally there is some movement in getting a Mobile "Bay Area" transit system in place. Its called BayLink and it has a limited schedule for now, but should operate during the times that it could service 90+% of the commuting population. Unfortunately my work hours are a bit offset but it is a step in the right direction.

(WKRG and Eastern Shore Chamber)
The Baldwin Rural Area Transit System (BRATS) and The Wave Transit System will connect the Eastern Shore to Mobile with new bus routes that begins Tuesday, November 6. The first BRATS bus will roll-out at 6 am from the Hardee’s Restaurant at the intersection of Fairhope Avenue (State Highway 48) and Greeno Road (U.S. Highway 98) in Fairhope. There will be other stops along the way to pick up commuters in Daphne and Spanish Fort. The bus will then arrive at Bienville Square at 6:45 am where riders will be able to connect with The Wave transit system.

Baylinc is the first effort in south Alabama to provide regional public transportation by connecting two counties. It is the result of effort by the two transit systems, local, state and federal elected officials, chambers of commerce, community leaders, members of transportation task forces, the Baldwin County Public Transit Coalition and many other transit stakeholders representing both sides of the bay. Baylinc is an Envision Strategy in Action effort.

"The Envision Coastal Alabama volunteers from Baldwin and Mobile Counties are witnessing a dream come true," said Ron Martin, Chairman of Envision Coastal Alabama. "Baylinc can be the answer to workforce issues because of workers living in affordable areas and working elsewhere."

An invitation only "Ribbon Wrapping Ceremony" will take place on the morning of November 5 at 9 am at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center to celebrate the "Baylinc-Connecting Communities" historical kick-off. Mobile Mayor Sam Jones, Baldwin County Commission Chairman Wayne Gruenloh, Tyrone Parker, general manager of The Wave and BRATS Director Taylor Rider, will give short presentations and lead participants in wrapping a large ribbon around a Wave bus and BRATS bus, signifying the long-awaited connection.

"It is an exciting day for public transit in south Alabama," said Rider. "It is great to see Baldwin County and the City of Mobile working together harmoniously to join our communities via public transit. Thanks to all who helped bring this service to fruition."

Schedules for the bus route are available at the BRATS hub at 18100 County Road 54 in Robertsdale, online at www.co.baldwin.al.us or call (251) 990-4636. The Wave schedules are available at the main headquarters at the GM&O Transportation Center, 1100 Beauregard St., Mobile, online at www.thewavetransit.com or call (251) 344-6600. Schedules are also available at all chambers of commerce offices. BRATS rates range from $1.50 to $3.00 depending on rider distances. The regular Wave fare is $1.25. Riders will need to have the correct change. Rider Discount Cards will be available for purchase from the bus drivers. All buses are handicapped accessible. Parking at the various stops along the Eastern Shore will be free. Employers may furnish seats to their employees as a pre-tax employment benefit and employer tax deduction of up to $110 a month.

The primary purpose of providing the new route is to help the workforce get to available jobs at both sides of the bay to aid in workforce development. However, the routes are not limited to just that one use, they may be used for Shopping, medical appointments, and many other needs that the citizens may have.

Riding the bus also helps to save on fuel, wear and tear on automobiles and eliminates parking fees. The new route will also provide transportation to those who have no other mode and for those who are either elderly or handicapped. The community benefits by reduced emissions, thereby creating cleaner air. The buses are clean and comfortable and riders are guaranteed a relaxed, worry free commute.

"On behalf of the employees of The Wave, we are really excited about this new endeavor," said Parker. "Baylinc will open up many opportunities for both Baldwin County and Mobile. This will be an ongoing operation that will only grow."

For more information call BRATS at (251) 990-4636 or The Wave at (251) 344-6600.

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