On March 24th, the City of Sedona launched the first phase of its Transit Implementation Plan. The new transit system, the Sedona Shuttle, began operation with routes to four of the area’s most popular trailheads, Cathedral Rock, Soldier Pass, Dry Creek, and Little Horse.
Beginning service in the midst to the busy spring break season, ridership was high from the first bus out of the lot at 8 A.M on Thursday morning. In the first four days of service, the system logged over 8,500 boardings, as thousands of hikers discovered the free, easy and eco-friendly way to explore some of Sedona’s favorite trails.
Two days before the launch, the region’s leaders gathered to celebrate Sedona’s first public transit service. Speakers at the ribbon cutting event included Sedona Mayor Sandy Moriarty, City Manager Karen Osburn, USFS Ranger Amy Tinderholt, and Sedona Chamber Interim CEO Michelle Conway. They represent the critical partnership which has made the service possible.
“The Sedona Shuttle’s trailhead routes are just the beginning of a plan to provide an array of transit services that will improve mobility for residents and visitors, reduce traffic and parking congestion and help meet the city’s sustainability goals,” said Mayor Moriarty.
City Manager Osburn stressed the fact that this is only the first step in implementing the Sedona Area Transit Implementation Plan. Service to Mescal trailhead will be added this summer, an app-based demand response service will be launched later this year and additional services are planned for the future.