The crippled have joined the list of those who lie to the Lanta Board of Directors. In the fall, the board dismissed over 1800 signatures from bus riders who protested moving the bus stops off Hamilton Street. Lanta claimed the list would have to be verified before being given any consideration. This winter, the board discounted the complaints of merchants; Lanta would have to inspect the merchants books before believing their claim of reduced business. Yesterday the claims of 60 disabled people about Lanta's Metro Plus* service will have to be looked into. Complaints varied from patients entirely missing therapy sessions to people kept on the van for over two hours and running out of oxygen. Lanta Director Armando Greco said "Part of the difficulty is determining the true extent of the problems in an objective fashion... some users are more tolerant of late arrivals and departures." The concessions made to the Hamilton Street merchants, adding additional stops on 7th and 8th Streets, have not helped restore foot traffic. It is becoming apparent the business community will once again have to appeal to Lanta. (third time) Perhaps Lanta will permit those who speak to testify under oath.
*Metro Plus is contracted out to Easton Coach, but Lanta is responsible for the quality of service.
So it's LANTA's job to provide 'foot traffic' for Hamilton Mall merchants? Son of a gun, I thought that was the job of ADVERTISING.
ReplyDeleteSince when is it a bus company's responsibility to bring 'foot traffic' to store owners? In my world that is done by ADVERTISING!
ReplyDeleteno less than 5 routes transfer at lehighvalleymall, 3 at whitehall mall, which is closer to the other mall than the new lanta terminal is to hamilton. in your world i suppose lanta's job is to help ParkingAuthoritys built decks. up to this past october its historical responsibility was to unite riders with a destination, not a terminal
ReplyDeleteIt's a bus company's job to take the MOST people to the BEST destinations, not the NEEDIEST people to the favorite destinations of select merchants. That bus depot makes it easier for the passengers to change buses in one place...and in comfort. I was there today watching riders and non-riders keeping warm and dry while haveing a cup of coffee. Can't beat that.
ReplyDeletemost of the riders are sitting outside on those cold metal benches at the far end of the terminal bus lot. On hamilton street they had a variety of warm stores to drink coffee and shop.
ReplyDeletemichael molovinsky said...
ReplyDeletemost of the riders are sitting outside on those cold metal benches at the far end of the terminal bus lot. On hamilton street they had a variety of warm stores to drink coffee and shop.
March 20, 2008 1:53 AM
If anybody is on the 'cold benches' that's their choice. There is a nice, warm waiting area for them...with restrooms. I love it.
I am sure Michael will be more than happy to come and pick up anyone who feels Lanta service is lacking and take them to their destination for just $1.50 or $2. then he will drive by every hour to see if they are done shopping yet. Please call or email him. I may even take him up on the offer. I live in Easton and want to go to the LV Mall. Thanks Michael you are great.
ReplyDeleteanon 11:59, no, i'm not available, but you do show the contemptuous attitude toward the riders i've seen exhibited by the lanta board and officials
ReplyDeleteMost Lanta riders are well pleased with the service they get. The Lanta buses are a bargain compared to paying $3+ a gallon for gas, $700 for car insurance plus car payments. I feel Lants does a good job, and I am not alone. Even so, a small few will still always complain about everything, just like you MM, you have probably rarely even used the Lanta bus. Lanta buses are a fantastic value for the people who use them. Thanks River
ReplyDelete