The City of Two Rivers is still deciding what to do with a public bus route that’s costing taxpayers more each year.
The city council discussed the Maritime Metro Transit Route 1, which has 75 stops in the Cool City and takes riders to Manitowoc. City Manager Kyle Kordell shared 308 responses from a community survey showing that keeping the route is a high priority for those residents.
However, Kordell says it will cost a little more than $156,000 in general funds, or property tax money, to keep the service coming to Two Rivers. That’s a 44% increase from 2023.
Residents also want to see the bus route show up in TR, but without as much of a property tax burden.
“So to that end, we have been in discussions with MMT on a variety of operational changes that could be implemented at the end of 2026,” he explained. “That would allow the route to continue it’s critical daily operations, but with a lower tax contribution from TR residents.”
Right now, it costs $1.50 for a single bus ride, while a monthly pass costs $30.
Property taxpayers are paying about $5.20 a ride.
City Council Vice President Adam Wachowski says he wants the route to continue but thinks riders and taxpayers need to share the cost evenly.
“I think that needs to be more in line with each other,” he stated. “Maybe closure to somewhat of a 50/50 or something somewhere in there around 60/40, something like that. Mix of that.”
Council Member Darla LeClair says while the process is still in the early stages and the changes residents want won’t happen overnight, they won’t let the people of the city down as they try to save money.
“We don’t want to forget the people factor,” she clarified. “And we have to balance that with the bottom line. We all want to spend our money prudently and keep your taxes down as best we can. You’re not going to be forgotten.”
The council also discussed options for punch cards or other ways to help residents get around the city.
Kordell also told the council that Maritime Metro is reviewing a plan they review every five years.
The council did not take any action, but could look into the issue more in depth during a future work session.
Other statistics show that Route 1 provides 28,000-30,000 rides a year, or about 2,300 rides a month.
