Transportation
Greene County Transportation Needs Assessment
In cooperation with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), this Transportation Needs Assessment was commissioned by the Greene County Legislature to address growing concern about escalating costs of transportation as well as concern about public transit and human service agency client transportation services available to residents of Greene County. Changing demographics, ranging from new employment opportunities in the developing northern portion of the County, significant out migration of Greene County residents for employment, the growing need to travel to adjoining counties, aging of the population and increased numbers of persons with disabilities now living independently in the community, are all contributing to the need for more efficient public transportation services. Additionally, rising gasoline prices amidst stagnating economic conditions in the region are making it increasingly difficult to depend singularly on driving.
The study was undertaken by consultants selected and overseen by the Greene County Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Planning. Understanding the close proximity of Columbia County to Greene County and the transportation needs of the residents of both the counties, the Greene County Legislature also commissioned this study in cooperation with Columbia County. The Rip Van Winkle Bridge is an important transportation asset and is used daily by the residents of both counties for work, shopping and medical services. Both counties simultaneously performed the development of individual Transportation Needs Assessments using the same consultant team. At numerous points throughout the study the respective Economic Development and Planning Departments met to discuss opportunities to coordinate service, and explore opportunities for consolidated services with the goal of reducing costs through efficiencies of scale.
Transportation Needs Assessment, Executive Summary
Transportation Needs Assessment, Draft Final Plan
Transportation Needs Assessment, Appendices
Toolkit for Rural Community Coordinated Transportation Services
Greene County Public Transportation
The Greene County Transit System offers safe, affordable, reliable public transportation services throughout Greene County. The Rip Van Winkle Express bus provides public service between the Village of Catskill and outlying areas of the County. The morning run brings passengers from their pickup points to any point along the route and ends in the Village of Catskill. A mid-day shuttle circulates throughout the Village. In the afternoon, the route is run in reverse, bringing passengers home.
The Rip Van Winkle Express is handicapped accessible and stops at each location listed on the published schedule. The bus, however, may be flagged down at any safe point along the route and, with appropriate notice to the driver, passengers can request alternate drop-off points.
The schedule allows for up to three route deviations of up to one mile off the main route. Any passenger, regardless of age may take advantage of the route deviation services and must contact First Student at 943-2852. Please call for reservations by the end of regular business hours of the day if you need a ride 24 hours in advance.
Qualifying seniors may have their fare subsidized by Greene County. In order to qualify, a senior must complete a registration form with the Greene County Department of the Aging. Funding for the Greene County Transit System includes the above mentioned subsidy, fares, cash match by Greene County, and Operating Assistances from New York State Department of Transportation. The State's assistance is based upon the number of passengers served and the number of miles traveled.