Petition filed; Green Bay Transit officials reconsider routes

By Scott williams
swilliams@greenbaypressgazette.com

ALLOUEZ — Green Bay Transit Authority officials are reconsidering new bus routes after Broadview Drive residents complained about having nearly 50 buses a day pass through their neighborhood.

"You really notice the noise and the smell," resident Andy Kersten said.

The transit agency began directing buses down Broadview this summer as part of a retooled area network in which some routes were consolidated and others were extended.

A new route carrying riders deeper into De Pere is among three now using Broadview, a street that previously had no bus traffic.

Transit Director Chris Phelps said officials recognize the impact on Broadview residents and are willing to consider making adjustments.

"The issue is there," he said. "We need to address it."

The situation involves Routes 11, 15 and 17, which serve an estimated 11,500 riders a month. Each route passes down Broadview hourly between about 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Surrounding residents took their concerns first to Allouez village officials, with a petition blaming the bus service for traffic congestion, safety hazards and pollution. About 35 people in the neighborhood signed the petition.

Broadview is a two-lane road between Webster Avenue and Libal Street.

Green Bay Transit officials later got involved and agreed to meet with residents and village officials to consider alternatives.

Kersten said he was pleased that the city-operated transit authority was willing to weigh residents' concerns.

"It's one of the cases where government works," he said.

Allouez Village Board members responded by asking the transit agency to hold off on pouring concrete for new bus shelters on Broadview until the issue is resolved.

Phelps said the affected routes could be adjusted as soon as December, depending on whether the changes are extensive or require approval from the city's Transit Commission. But he called a compromise possible, adding that he is ready to meet with residents soon.

"They've expressed their concerns," he said of people in the neighborhood. "They seem very eager to work with us."