by Gina Greco
Elected officials, community leaders and area business owners were invited to the inauguration and celebration of the Old Forge–Thendara Community Shuttle that was held at Van Auken’s Inne in Thendara on Thursday, July 30.
The Community Shuttle, an ADA compliant public transportation opportunity, was realized with help from legislators, state and town officials, community organizations and local business owners.
It was made possible by Federal and State grant funding managed by the Herkimer-Oneida County Transportation Study, which has contracted with Birnie Bus Services to operate the shuttle.
The funding was matched by the Town of Webb, the Central Adirondack Association, and private enterprises.
The program is administered locally by the Central Adirondack Partnership for the 21st Century (CAP-21).
“This is a unique and shining example of public-private partnership to build essential community services,” said Town of Webb Publicity Director Mike Farmer.
Adirondack Scenic Railroad Executive Director, Bethan Maher, said one of the train’s biggest difficulties has been getting Utica passengers to town from Thendara Station.
“We can market a train ride, but that’s not the selling point. The selling point is the day excursion you have to Old Forge,” she said.
“You can take the [Old Forge Lake Cruises] boat ride, go to VIEW, enjoy the town; there’s no pressure. The day is all figured out for them,” she said.
Maher said a recent review on Facebook from an Adirondack Scenic Railroad customer said their day trip to Old Forge was one of the best they have had.
“They didn’t have to think. They took the train and as soon as they got off, the bus was waiting. Someone greeted them and said, ‘What do you want to do today?’” she said.
“[The shuttle] is a huge asset for our operation, to improve the transportation and really market Old Forge,” she said.
Dana Crisino, of Herkimer-Oneida County Transportation, said fifty percent of the funding for the shuttle’s two-year pilot is from the Federal Trans-portation Administration.
“We are hoping the two years gives us the number and the statistics to only build up and hopefully go up to Inlet and to Otter Lake and White Lake. We have plans, and there is a lot we can do to expand,” she said.
“It’s just amazing coming up here to appreciate everything [that’s changed],” said Herkimer County Legislator Bernie Peplinski.
“This is a major step forward [for Old Forge], and I congratulate everyone who was involved in it,” Assemblyman Marc Butler said.
Bob Geddis, representing Senator Hugh Farley, said the senator is glad for the project.
“[The shuttle] is a tremendous addition to our community,” Mike Farmer said.
It makes fifteen stops in the community, including McCauley Mountain with the popular scenic chairlift ride, he added.
The shuttle vehicles are also handicap accessible and outfitted for two wheelchairs.
Rail transportation from Utica’s Union Station to the Thendara event was provided for invited guests and media by the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.
Lunch was provided by Van Auken’s Inne.