Plans to cut Pioneer Valley Transit Authority bus routes have been significantly scaled back. The changes follow criticism from bus riders and area colleges.
The PVTA had considered cutting up to eight bus routes. The new plan calls for eliminating four, but providing alternative services for three of them. Service would be reduced on another nine routes.
PVTA faces a more than million dollar budget deficit. Administrator Sandra Sheehan said the agency will need to use some reserve funds.
A PVTA subcommittee voted Tuesday to approve the new plan, with only one no vote, from rider representative Patrick Burke. He said there should be no cuts before PVTA asks for more funding from the Five Colleges, MassMutual, MGM and Baystate Medical Center.
The full advisory board will consider the plan Wednesday.
