New PAT Routes Limit Downtown Traffic

The Port Authority of Allegheny County has released its proposed route changes for 2010 and it pulls all bus traffic out of Market Square and changes the “Loops” traveled by many of the authority’s buses. PAT Spokesperson Jim Ritchie says the new system not only reduces the number of downtown streets used by buses but it also consolidates the routes by region served. For example, Richie says, nearly all of the buses serving the North Hills will stay on one set loop through downtown. The same will be true for buses serving other areas of the county. Ritchie says not only will that help traffic flow in the Golden Triangle but it will also help users find the buses they need. Details on the routes can be found at the Port Authority’s special web page. The public comment period on the new route and fare plan closes September 30th. A hearing will be held Tuesday, September 15 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, Downtown.