One Joplin, a nonprofit organization with the goal of uniting business leaders, community organizers, and citizens to facilitate collaboration and communication, announced in mid-February that they will be conducting a transportation survey in Joplin.
The survey will gather information related to the community’s desired public transit system. Questions include weekday versus weekend transit schedules, cost of fare, and where people would like to travel using transit.
In November of 2022, the Sunshine Lamp Trolley in Joplin was suspended due to a shortage of operators. At the time, City Manager Nick Edwards reported to KOAM news that it was unfortunate to have to suspend service, but the city was working to broaden their pool of drivers by working with schools and training facilities to train individuals to become drivers.
Nicole Brown, executive director of One Joplin, was recently quoted saying, “Since the Trolley’s pause in November 2022, partner agencies and volunteers have expressed concerns about its impact on clients. Conducting the survey will give citizens a voice.”
Since the suspension of trolley service, the city has been working to find a transportation solution. In August of 2023, the City Council agreed to purchase three new vehicles, one for trolley service and two buses for the Metro Area Paratransit System. The city also obtained a $400,000 grant to be used to establish a regional transit authority which would be responsible for the operation of a public transit system.
By participating in the One Joplin survey, residents will be able to share their wants and needs for a robust public transit system in Joplin. One Joplin will share the results of the survey with local leaders with the plan to explore solutions to residents’ transportation needs.