Introduction
Navigating any city or town can be a daunting task, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle. Fortunately, the Bethel Public Transit System (BPTS) offers a reliable and affordable solution for residents and visitors of Bethel, Connecticut. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the BPTS, including its routes, schedules, fares, and special programs.
Routes and Schedules
There are six permanent routes that the BPTS runs, giving passengers access to Bethel’s downtown, commercial malls, schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
The six routes are as follows:
- Route 1: Downtown – Stony Hill
- Route 2: Downtown – Clifford Street
- Route 3: Downtown – Plumtrees
- Route 4: Downtown – Berkshire Industrial Park
- Route 5: Bethel High School – Stony Hill
- Route 6: Berkshire – Berkshire Industrial Park
Buses on each route arrive at specified stops on a regular basis, following a set timetable. Additionally, the BPTS provides a real-time bus tracker that lets users check the whereabouts, bus stop bus and anticipated time of arrival of their bus online or through a smartphone app.
Fares
The BPTS operates on a cash-fare basis, with the base fare set at $1.50 for all routes. Reduced fares of $0.75 are available for senior citizens (age 65 and older), individuals with disabilities, and students (grades K-12). Exact change is required when boarding, and passengers are encouraged to carry small bills and coins to ensure a smooth transaction.
The BPTS also offers a variety of fare media, including:
10-Ride Ticket Book: Ten pre-paid tickets, available for $12.00 (a 20% savings).
Fare media can be purchased at the BPTS office, located at 1 School Street in Bethel, or on board the bus from the driver (with exact change).
Special Programs
The BPTS recognizes the importance of providing accessible transportation options for all members of the community. As such, the system offers several special programs to accommodate the unique needs of its passengers:
- ADA Paratransit Service: The BPTS provides complementary paratransit service for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route system. This service operates within ¾ of a mile of the fixed routes and must be scheduled in advance.
- Bethel Dial-A-Ride: A curb-to-curb transportation service for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, operating within the town of Bethel.
- School Trips: The BPTS partners with the Bethel Public Schools to provide transportation for various school-related activities, including field trips and athletic events.
- Commuter Shuttle: The BPTS operates a commuter shuttle during peak hours, connecting the downtown area with the Bethel Train Station. This service is designed to accommodate commuters who park in the downtown area and travel to work via the Metro-North Railroad.
The Bethel Public Transit System offers a vital transportation resource for the residents and visitors of Bethel, Connecticut. With its comprehensive network of routes, bus stop bus affordable fares, and special programs, the BPTS ensures that all members of the community have access to essential services and amenities. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a student, or a senior citizen, the BPTS is here to help you navigate Bethel with ease and confidence.