A STEP FORWARD BY UCAT------- BUT THEY NEED TO A GIANT STEP

Ulster County Area Transit

The stops to Healthy Way and Tops were added from Ellenville during peak hours and on request during off peak hours.

THE STOPS TO HEALTHY WAY AND TOPS FROM BOTH DIRECTIONS SHOULD BE AT ALL TIMES 

Petition to Restore Regular Bus Service to Ellenville Senior Housing, Ellenville Regional Hospital, Ellenville Family Health Center, Tops Supermarket Plaza, and Direct Route to Kingston

To: Ulster County Area Transit, Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger

From: Concerned Residents and Supporters of Ellenville

Date: August 2025

Subject: Request for Restoration of Regular Bus Stop Service and Direct Route to Kingston

We, the undersigned residents, caregivers, and community members, respectfully petition UCAT to reinstate regular bus stop service to Ellenville Senior Housing, Ellenville Regional Hospital, Ellenville Family Health Center, Tops Supermarket Plaza, Walmart as well as restore a direct route to Kingston Hannaford Plaza

These locations are essential to the health, independence, and daily well-being of many seniors and individuals with limited mobility. The removal or reduction of service has created significant hardship, including:

🚶‍♂️ Limited Access to Essential Services: Seniors rely on public transportation to reach grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical appointments.
🧓 Loss of Independence: Many residents no longer drive and depend on the bus for daily needs and social engagement.
💊 Restricted Access to Healthcare: The absence of direct transit to Ellenville Regional Hospital and Ellenville Family Health Center puts residents at risk by delaying or complicating access to medical care.
🛒 Barriers to Grocery Access: Tops Supermarket Plaza (Restaurants, laundromat and medical office) and Walmart is a primary source of affordable food and household supplies.
🏥 Disconnected from Regional Services: Kingston Hannaford Plaza serves as a regional hub for medical, legal, and social services. A direct route is critical for timely access.
💸 Increased Financial Burden: Alternatives such as taxis or ride-share services are costly and unsustainable for those on fixed incomes.
🏘️ Community Impact: The lack of service isolates vulnerable populations and undermines efforts to support aging-in-place.
We urge the Ulster County Area Transit to consider the following actions:

Restore regular bus stop service to Ellenville Senior Housing, Tops Supermarket, and Ellenville Regional Hospital on weekdays and Saturday.
Reinstate a direct route to Kingston to ensure timely and efficient access to regional services.
Engage with residents to understand their transportation needs and explore long-term solutions.
Ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Public transportation is not just a convenience—it is a lifeline. We believe that restoring this service aligns with the values of equity, inclusion, and community support.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.