Martin County commissioners approved a one‑year emergency contract on Saturday to bring back MARTY public‑transit service after it abruptly stopped on Oct. 8. The contract was awarded to MTM Transit, a provider that previously operated the county’s buses.
Why the service stopped
The former vendor, Martin County Transit LLC, cancelled the contract citing sharply rising fuel prices and maintenance costs that made continued operation unsustainable. The sudden loss left many residents, especially those who rely on the fixed‑route system for work, medical appointments, and school, without transportation.
Emergency contract details
Under the emergency agreement, MTM Transit will restore service in phases. The first phase, beginning Thursday, will focus on eligible riders with disabilities who cannot use the regular fixed‑route system. Those riders can call 772‑463‑2822 to schedule reservations and learn about the limited schedule.
The county’s transportation director emphasized that the emergency contract is a stop‑gap measure designed to get essential service back on the road while a longer‑term solution is developed. “Our priority is to ensure that our most vulnerable residents have reliable transportation as quickly as possible,” the director said.
Plans for full service restoration
County officials have not set a firm date for the full return of regular MARTY routes. They are actively working to rehire former bus drivers who were let go when the previous vendor ended the contract. The county also plans to evaluate the cost structure of the service to prevent future disruptions.
In addition to driver recruitment, the county will review fuel contracts and maintenance agreements to secure more stable pricing. The transportation department is coordinating with state agencies to explore supplemental funding options that could offset operating costs.
Community response
Local residents expressed relief that the county moved quickly to address the transit gap. “I depend on the bus to get to my doctor’s appointments,” said Maria Hernandez, a senior citizen who uses the paratransit service. “Knowing the county is bringing it back gives me peace of mind.”
Business owners near major bus stops also welcomed the news, noting that reliable transit supports local commerce by bringing customers to downtown areas.
How to access the restored service
Riders who qualify for the disability‑priority phase should call the MARTY reservation line at 772‑463‑2822. The line will provide information on pickup locations, scheduling windows, and any documentation required for eligibility.
For updates on the broader service restoration timeline, residents can visit the Martin County official website or follow the county’s social‑media channels.
Looking ahead
The emergency contract underscores Martin County’s commitment to maintaining essential public services even in the face of rising operational costs. By acting swiftly, the county aims to preserve mobility for all residents, uphold the community’s quality of life, and lay the groundwork for a more resilient transit system in the future.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
