CASPER, WY — The Casper Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) has launched a public comment period for its latest transit study, giving residents a chance to shape the future of local bus service. Feedback must be submitted by Oct. 27, either online, by email to [email protected], or by mail to the MPO office inside Casper City Hall at 200 N. David St.

Study highlights current challenges

The draft report notes that up to 13 % of households in certain Casper census tracts lack access to a personal vehicle. For those families, transit is a lifeline for medical appointments and commuting to work. The existing system operates six fixed LINK bus routes on 60‑minute schedules, supplemented by the ASSIST door‑to‑door para‑transit service.

Driver shortages have forced operators to combine routes, resulting in irregular frequencies and scheduling headaches for passengers. The MPO’s analysis suggests that a more reliable service will require both higher‑frequency fixed routes and flexible, on‑demand options.

Proposed hybrid model

Community input to date favors a hybrid approach that pairs high‑frequency fixed routes with micro‑transit zones. Under this model, core commercial corridors would see buses running every 20 to 30 minutes. The proposed Blue route would link the CY Avenue Walmart with the 2nd Street Walmart, while a Green route would serve north Casper neighborhoods.

Lower‑demand areas would transition to three on‑demand micro‑transit zones. Riders could request curb‑to‑curb rides via a mobile app or phone call, receiving direct connections to key medical hubs such as the Casper VA Clinic and the Natrona County Health Department.

How to comment

Residents can review the full draft report on the MPO’s website. Written comments may be emailed, mailed, or delivered in person to City Hall before the Oct. 27 deadline. The MPO encourages input from all community members, especially those who rely on transit for daily needs.

Why the study matters

Improving transit reliability aligns with broader goals of supporting families, enhancing access to essential services, and fostering a more connected community. By addressing driver shortages and offering flexible travel options, the MPO hopes to reduce the burden on households without personal vehicles and strengthen Casper’s overall quality of life.

The MPO will compile all comments and incorporate community feedback into its final recommendations, which will be presented to city officials later this year.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.