MATA to hold two meetings addressing ongoing issues

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Area Transit Authority is hosting a meeting Thursday night to speak with the public about possible routes that could be taken away.

Another meeting will also be held on Thursday to ask city leaders for at least $20 million to keep MATA running at least next year.

According to those with the Moral Budget Coalition, thousands of Memphians rely on MATA to get to work, school, the doctor, and more. They say chronic under funding has already led to reduced transit services, hitting hardest in disenfranchised neighborhoods that depend on public transportation the most.

The number of fixed routes will go from 23 to 17 with services being eliminated after 7 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays.

WREG got a chance to speak with those affected and they say things have to change.

“They messed with the money and now they want money and they need money. They need to straighten it up. It’s sad because it’s affecting the people who don’t have cars,” one Memphis resident said.

The Coalition suggests that the city allocate at least $20 million to MATA using revenue sources such as increasing property tax and vehicle registration fees.

According to them, these emergency funds will provide relief to address the immediate service needs and allow time for other revenue sources to be identified in the next budget cycle.

The press conference will be held at City Hall on Thursday morning.

The MATA community meeting will be held at the Benjamin Hooks Library at 6 p.m.

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