Charles County was recently awarded $227,000 of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Federal Stimulus funds to restore Van Go services that had been recently cut. Due to budget restraints Van Go was forced to incorporate a midday service break in March 2009, shutting down service for an hour in the middle of the day. Additionally, service on the rural routes in Nanjemoy and Indian Head were reduced for 2 hours each day. These services will be restored effective as of January 19.
Charles County’s Transportation Division is also pleased to announce that a Van Go northbound 301 stop at the Charles County Department of Health in White Plains will be added to improve safety for Van Go patrons. This change will be effective on January 16th.
Over the past year Van Go ridership has increased 19%; a trend that is continuing in 2010. from Fiscal Year 2008 to Fiscal Year 2009. Many routes are operating very close to capacity, and occasionally with standing room only. Thirteen replacement buses are slated to arrive late this winter. They are medium duty and slightly larger than the units being replaced which will help to alleviate some crowding during peak hours.