Libby Michaels urges Knoxville Transportation Authority to maintain bus service on Cedar Lane

During a recent meeting of the Knoxville Transportation Authority (KTA), community member Libby Michaels voiced her concerns regarding the upcoming changes to local bus services, particularly the discontinuation of Bus 90 on Cedar Lane, set to take effect in August 2024. Michaels, a resident of Knoxville since 2018, highlighted the importance of public transportation in her daily life, emphasizing how Bus 90 connects her to essential services such as her pharmacy, grocery stores, and medical appointments.

Michaels shared her personal story, detailing her health challenges following a brain aneurysm and the reliance on public transit for her mobility. She noted that the bus service not only provides a cost-effective means of transportation—at $1 for an all-day pass—but also offers a safe and reliable option for residents, especially those with disabilities or health issues.

The KTA's recent approval of a reimagined transit plan has raised concerns among residents like Michaels, who fear that the removal of Bus 90 will limit access to vital services and recreational activities, including transportation to local sports events. She urged the KTA to reconsider the decision, arguing that maintaining bus service on Cedar Lane is crucial for the community's accessibility and well-being.

Michaels concluded her remarks by calling on the KTA Board to demonstrate their commitment to providing efficient and reliable transit options for all residents, emphasizing that the proposed changes should not come at the expense of essential services for the community. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between city officials and residents regarding public transportation needs in Knoxville.