SPOT announces route and stop changes

SANDPOINT — The journey will be smoother for Selkirks-Pend Oreille transit riders.

The transit agency announced Friday that it has added several stops to existing routes and moved several stops in Sandpoint and Kootenai. SPOT also added a few stops in Ponderay and one in Kootenai, said Donna Griffin, SPOT executive director.

The changes were made with rider comfort and safety in mind, Griffin said.

In Ponderay, SPOT’s Blue Route has new stops on Triangle Drive, near Schralpenhaus and near Schweitzer Plaza Drive. The Green Route has new stops located on Schweitzer Plaza Drive, near Triangle Drive. In Kootenai, SPOT moved the Railroad Avenue stop to McGhee Road between Second Avenue and Highway 200. Railroad Avenue will no longer receive service, Griffin said.

To improve turnaround time, SPOT has changed the location of its stop to Sixth Avenue, near Kaniksu Community Health and Super 1 Foods. The stop is now located on the Super 1 side of Sixth Avenue, near the south side of the east entrance/exit to the store’s parking lot.

The goal, Griffin said, is to help SPOT drivers better navigate the area and improve safety.

Griffin said safety concerns were also the reason for moving the bus shelter to Kootenai Cutoff Road. The shelter is being moved west, away from its current location at the crosswalk and approach to Walmart.

“Many have witnessed safety issues involving vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in this area,” Griffin said of the reason for the decision.

Griffin reminded riders and community residents that SPOT bus drivers prioritize safety. And she added that due to circumstances beyond their control, they may experience delays.

To ease frustrations and help riders know where the transit agency’s buses are at all times, Griffin said residents can access live map/tracking information on the SPOT website – spotbus .org – on most devices, including cell phones.

“This tool can help you plan for your transportation needs,” Griffin said.

A free public transit service, SPOT Bus provides transportation services throughout Bonner and Boundary counties. Riders can access route information, live maps of bus locations, bus stops and much more on the transport company’s website.

Information: Selkirks-Pend Oreille Transit: online, spotbus.org; email, [email protected]; or by phone, 208-263-3774