UCAT Route Optimization Plan

UCAT provides access to the Metro North station in Poughkeepsie direct from Kingston and New Paltz.  Much of the Empire Service from Rhinecliff also stops at the Poughkeepsie Station. In addition, much of the Amtrak service heading north also stops at Poughkeepsie.  Given these factors, access to Rhinecliff has not been deemed a priority. 

The data shows that there is little demand for service in this area – Ulster County has applied for funding for Microtransit that would provide service 2-3 days a week to for the Wallkill Area if the funding is awarded.  UCAT provides a shopping bus to senior projects in the Gardiner and Wallkill Area. 

The Peter Pan service from Kingston Bus Terminal mirrors the Trailways service 

As we move further into the route scheduling we will work to coordinate with the Trailways Schedule  Trailways service from Kingston leaves every 30-40 minutes in the morning and our Kingston routes should be able to connect to at least one of these times

Our high-level cost calculation was built on the assumption that service was consistent all day (i.e. Lunch breaks not causing an interruption in service). However, we'll develop more detailed routes and schedules in the next round of scenarios.

Yes, the current scenario being proposed would eliminate the traditional NP Loop. In order to maintain a loop service in New Paltz, 3 new routes will terminate in NP and circulate through the village following the same route covered by the Loop, so the area covered by the service will effectively remain the same. The 11 to Newburgh, The 9 to Poughkeepsie/SUNY Ulster, or the 3 to Kingston and SUNY Ulster would each provide circulation before heading to their other destinations. Detailed schedules will be developed during the next phase.

Thank you for your comment.  We're presently taking feedback on proposed route alternatives. Please use the Maptionnaire survey tool to drop a pin on your preferred destinations.  Your comment would apply to Draft Routes 9 & 10.

Thank you for your question.  The County is continuing efforts to refine its routes and expand service where practical.  Your input will be considered as part of this effort.  Of note older and handicapped individuals are entitle to paratransit service and can contract UCAT directly to arrange rides.  Paratransit eligibility is as a practical matter, the individual can use fixed route transit in his or her own circumstances.” Transit agencies, with input from the communities they serve, devise the specifics of their individual eligibility processes.