Program maps transit systems

SANDPOINT — A cadre of Bonner County decision-makers from all areas of local government came together Friday for a meeting focused on public transportation.

Led by Idaho Transportation Department official John Kearnes and area coordinator Susan Kiebert, the meeting focused on how Bonner and Boundary counties can attain more robust public transportation systems through a project called Idaho's Mobility and Access Pathway.

The goal of IMAP is to transform the way in which Idaho implements mass transit programs from a process that focuses on transit providers to one that focuses on local users, Kearnes said.

The state's previous method for funding and implementing public transit programs did not include enough input from members of the individual communities being affected, Kearnes said.

"Instead of focusing first on providers … we're starting by identifying needs first, and that is not done by us - by ITD - that's done by you," Kearnes said.

Kearnes asked area residents who are interested in public transit to get involved in the process by working in a  Local Mobility Management Network. Through LMMNs, each of the state's 17 districts will outline community transportation needs and brainstorm solutions. Once completed the 17 plans will be compiled to form a statewide transportation plan.

Friday's meeting was meant to be an introduction to the process, and subsequent meeting will examine the more minute aspects of financing and implementation, Kiebert said.

To learn more about IMAP or to take part in the district LMMN, contact Kiebert at 265-0897.