News Releases for July 2004
July 7, 2004
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Hoeven: State Working To Replace Greyhound Service Cuts
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today announced that the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) is working with several companies to replace bus service currently provided by the Greyhound Bus Company. Greyhound announced June 25 that it would discontinue service to 11 of its 12 locations in North Dakota. Only Fargo would remain on the line. Two bus lines - one in Minnesota, one in Montana - feel optimistic that replacement by August 18th is feasible, according to Hoeven.
“Our intent is to get service in place by August 18th before Greyhound makes its reduction,” Hoeven said. “There are a number of companies working closely with our Department of Transportation to address our options.”
Carriers in Minnesota and Montana have expressed interest in bridging the service gap, according to NDDOT Director David Sprynczynatyk. Yesterday, Sprynczynatyk facilitated a conference call between the NDDOT and the CEOs of Minneapolis-based Jefferson Lines, and Billings, Montana-based Rimrock Trailways. The two carriers agreed to work with the NDDOT to provide substitution service without interruption. NDDOT is working with Greyhound to provide information to the interested carriers about ridership, revenue per mile and tickets issued through commission agents.
“This conference call had a very positive outcome,” Hoeven said. “The companies are committed to helping make the August 18th goal a reality because an integrated network is critical to the success of their industry.” NDDOT will continue to meet with the two companies and any other bus lines interested in ensuring that North Dakota has uninterrupted bus service.
Sprynczynatyk met last week with a committee studying public transportation issues in North Dakota, including intercity bus transportation. The group was formed as part of Hoeven's directive to create a statewide strategic transportation plan called TransAction. One of the plan’s initiatives requires the state to create a transportation plan that will meet the needs of all state residents.
“We have been working with independent carriers and Greyhound representatives, as well as transit authorities in Minnesota, Montana and South Dakota to bridge the service gap in North Dakota,” Hoeven said. “We are working on all fronts to help ensure that North Dakota’s public transportation needs are met, now and in the future.”
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