Scott County Transit looking to expand service offerings

Sikeston DPS Director and Scott County Transit Board member Jim McMillen speaks during Thursday, July 20, 2023, Sikeston Regional Chamber meeting. (City of Sikeston photo)

SIKESTON — Every thriving community needs public transportation, and officials are seeking to improve that need in Sikeston.

Sikeston Department of Public Safety Director Jim McMillen, who also serves on the Scott County Transit Board, informed those who attended the Thursday, July 20 Sikeston Regional Chamber luncheon, of the need for improved public transportation.

McMillen said as part of the long-term plan to reduce crime, there is a focus on getting youth into mentoring programs. However, many don’t have rides to those programs. 

“If the kids can’t get to these programs, they’re likely to get mentored by other people,” McMillen said. 

He also gave examples of people locally who need transportation to work for reasons out of their control.

As part of the long-term plan, Scott County Transit is seeking to add more vehicles and drivers while expanding their hours as well. Also, as part of their long-term view, they want to make two established routes with stops down Main and Malone. 

McMillen said doing this would help access a labor force that isn’t being accessed. He said it will take the community being involved. 

“It’s going to have to be a community partnership,” McMillen said. 

Marilyn Schlosser, executive director of Scott County Transit, said they want to get the word out that they are available in the community. 

“We’re here for everyone,” Schlosser said. 

Currently Scott County Transit has a staff of 10 people and are looking for more drivers. They have seven vehicles that run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Schlosser said beginning the first week in August, they will run on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

The cost to travel in the Sikeston city limits is $4 for elderly/handicap and $5 for the public. They do travel to New Madrid County inside the city limits. The costs increase incrementally the further out of the city limits traveled. They also will transport residents to vote for free. 

Also, during the Chamber luncheon, members were briefed on recent Chamber activities, including the Hot Air Balloon Festival, grand opening of Carlisle Construction Materials and the ARPA Celebration. Sikeston City Manager Jonathan Douglass gave information on the upcoming sales tax renewal that is on the Aug. 8 ballot and the Sikeston Jaycees gave an update on this year’s rodeo, which will be held from Aug. 9-12.