Funding Cuts to Transportation in Rural Missouri

Dear Editor:

 

Gov. Kehoe's decision to cut State Transit Assistance resulted in a $48,000 funding reduction for Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS). This reduction may seem insignificant to some, but coupled with rising costs for vehicles and wages, it places heavy financial strain on rural transportation. Missouri’s state funding per capita dropped from $1.89 to $1.08 due to these cuts. By comparison, neighboring states invest far more.

 

The impact is not limited to SMTS. Other transportation providers in Missouri, like OATS Transit, have also felt the strain. Since 2020, the Missouri minimum wage has increased by over 45% and the cost of transit vehicles has nearly doubled in recent years. Current funding levels are not sufficient for the level of transportation service that Missouri residents need and expect.

 

SMTS has provided rural transportation in 21 counties of Southeast Missouri since 1973, ensuring consistent, safe, and accessible transportation. Countless individuals rely on our services. Without it, individuals would have limited or no access to transportation for employment, medical appointments, groceries, etc. Reduced services are not an option we are willing to accept, so we will continue to advocate for funds that make public transportation possible.

 

We are urging individuals throughout Southeast Missouri to contact our state representatives and advocate for the restoration of transit funding.

 

Tracy Jones

Executive Director, Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS) and Missouri Public Transit Association Board Member