May 8 Transit Millage Proposal
To assure that the system is operating efficiently and meeting passenger demand, The Rapid brought in nationally-known experts to analyze the routes and identify improvements. The results from this comprehensive operational analysis were a series of recommendations for improving operational efficiency and effectiveness, putting services where there is the most demand, and improving route connectivity and transfer opportunities. The first set of these recommendations (Phase I) can be implemented within the existing budget and will go into effect in late May 2007.
The second set of recommendations (Phase II) requires additional funding to expand services that meet the identified needs. On May 8, voters in Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming will have the opportunity to consider renewing the existing 0.95 mills that support transit services and add an increase of 0.17 mills to fund these improvements.
Draft Plan for Service Improvement
Phase II builds upon the improvements of Phase I. It expands service through such enhancements as increased frequency of buses, increased evening and weekend service, and the creation of a new bus route. The plan calls for a substantial increase in services; therefore increased funding is necessary for its implementation.
The May 8, 2007 transit millage proposal would provide the funding necessary to implement Phase II. If the millage passes, Phase II would be implemented by September 2008.
View Ballot Language
View Ballot Language
Shall The Rapid (Interurban Transit Partnership) levy a tax for public transportation of up to 1.12 mills? This millage is a renewal of the 0.95 mills approved by the voters in 2003 and an addition of 0.17 mills. This millage covers a period of five (5) years, beginning in the year 2008 and continuing through 2012, on the taxable value of all taxable property in The Rapid's district (the six cities of East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Walker and Wyoming). This millage is estimated to raise $12,219,262 in its first year.
