Bangor is again suspending its Saturday public bus service.
The city had cut the Community Connector’s Saturday service in June 2022, citing a driver shortage, but it returned in June 2023.
Now Bangor is preparing to suspend that service once again starting Oct. 5, the city announced Tuesday morning. It described the change as “temporary.”
“Unfortunately, we find ourselves in a position to make this difficult decision. We understand this change to the bus service will negatively impact some riders and want everyone to know that we did not reach this decision lightly. We are taking active steps in an effort to bring full service back as quickly as possible,” Assistant City Manager Courtney O’Donnell said in a statement.
In announcing the decision, the city said that Saturdays have seen the lowest ridership, arguing the change will allow drivers to offer better service Monday through Friday.
Hammond Street and Center Street routes also will return to regular service Monday through Friday.
The Transit Center in downtown Bangor will remain open Monday through Friday, but the city may reduce its hours if the center can’t be staffed.
That change comes as Bangor continues to roll out fixed-stop routes across the Community Connector’s service area.
Since June, riders have been encouraged to gather at their nearest designated bus stop but still can flag down an approaching bus.
In January 2025, riders can no longer flag down buses.
The change is part of a broader effort to improve the Community Connector’s on-time performance and boost ridership. It also will allow for the use of real-time bus tracking.
To aid with the transition, the city of Bangor has installed more than 300 bus stops based on available infrastructure, use and population density. Those stops may be expanded or reduced based on daily ridership. Stops will include, at the very least, a reflective sign and “landing area.”
The Community Connector is owned and operated by the city of Bangor and serves Bangor, Brewer, Hampden, Old Town, Orono, Veazie and the University of Maine.
Correction: The city of Bangor has clarified that the Transit Center will be closed on Saturdays and its hours may be reduced Monday through Friday if it can’t be staffed.