Pullman Transit proposed numerous changes to current bus routes at the Pullman City Council meeting Tuesday night.

Financial needs such as rising expenses, static revenues and contribution increases from WSU and Pullman School District need to be addressed, said Wayne Thompson, Pullman Transit manager.

In addition, Thompson said there are two buses from the mid-1990s which could cost as much as $80,000 to repair if they broke down.

To address these expenses, the J-route is being severely cut back, Thompson said. Within the route, Hopkins Court would face route reductions whereas Grimes Way would be dropped completely, as few people use these routes each day.

The existing loop route will cover the Pioneer Hill section of the J-route, Thompson said. He also said he wants to have four buses running year-round instead of the usual three starting around this holiday season.

“We are not cutting service, we are cutting the name J-route,” said Brad Rader, Pullman Transit administrative supervisor. While some routes will extend in time, Rader said people should not have to add on more than 5-15 minutes for their commute.

These changes are only temporary until new funding can be acquired, Rader said, looking specifically at alternative state and federal funding. The plan is to start adding service back within the span of two years, he said.

Reporting by Darold Lee Bivens