Business View Magazine - April 2024

the Norwalk Transit District remains a vital lifeline for commuters and residents in the region. Pentz’s commitment to providing accessible and reliable transit services contributes to residents’ overall mobility and well-being. Balancing safety, convenience, and sustainability will remain essential in shaping the future of public transportation. EN ROUTE WITH COASTAL LINK, WHEELS 2U, AND SHUTTLES Partnering with Greater Bridgeport and Milford Transits, Norwalk offers a comprehensive network with ten fixed bus routes within the Coastal Link (CL) regional route. These services are extended during evenings and weekends for added convenience. Commuter shuttles, timed with Metro-North trains, provide efficient travel to and from work between Greenwich, Norwalk, Westport, and Wilton stations. On weekends and evenings, local shuttles travel to popular destinations, enhancing access to vibrant dining, entertainment, and retail offerings, as well as scenic spots like Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk Cove Marina. Rowayton features a dedicated drop-off and pickup area, offering hassle-free transportation to shopping, social gatherings, and beachside leisure without parking worries. The Wheels 2U service, updated on March 26, now presents the best public transit options at any given time, including door-to-door pickups and drop-offs, with expanded service hours seven days a week. Fares are affordable at $2 per ride or $6 for groups of 3–8 people. Shuttles are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and drivers are trained to aid passengers with disabilities. Discounted rates are available for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children. Wheels2U Westport provides shuttle services within its area to the Saugatuck or Green Farm train stations. Additionally, ADA Paratransit offers a range of door- to-door services for eligible seniors and people with disabilities, requiring an application and scheduling by 5:00 pm the day before the trip. Services vary by town, ensuring tailored transportation solutions. Running all those services efficiently requires insight, investigation, and innovation. THE ROUTE TOWARD ELECTRIFICATION Connecticut’s bus services are either state-run through CT Transit or operated by local districts like Norwalk, which offers fixed routes, para-transit, commuter shuttles, and on-demand services. The NTD’s local governance allows it to respond to changing requirements, guided by a board in tune with the city. Transitioning vehicles to electric power faces economic and technological barriers. Limited charging infrastructure impedes widespread adoption, while high battery costs are also a barrier, affecting affordability. Balancing requirements for high-power off-highway equipment, such as construction machinery for durability, and operational needs, is difficult. Procuring electric buses, retrofitting existing 152 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 04