CT Transit bus 213 serves New Haven, East Haven, and North Branford along Route 80. CT Transit is reviewing routes and appears to be preparing to discontinue the 213, which would be a loss for all who live along Route 80 and in the surrounding neighborhoods.

The bus is a positive alternative to driving; it’s safe, ecologically sound, and economical. The professional drivers are prompt, courteous, and handle difficult road conditions skillfully. Many of our residents, especially those with farming backgrounds, are concerned about all those cars on Route 80 and Interstate 91; the bus is a ready solution. It also saves on the cost of parking.

I’m asking the towns of North Branford and East Haven to review their positions on the availability of bus service and to express their concerns about the loss of service to CT Transit. I also invite all the residents of both towns who live along Route 80 to ride the bus. The fare is $1.75 each way for adults, but seniors (aged 65 an older) pay only 85 cents. Passes can be purchased at a discount. Some employers provide passes to their employees at even further discounted rates.

Service is limited to two runs in the morning that arrive at the New Haven Green at approximately 7:35 and 8:40 a.m. as well as two runs in the afternoon that leave the New Haven Green at approximately 4:10 and 5:15 p.m., but those runs work perfectly for folks who work 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The detailed schedule can be viewed at CTTransit.com. An added benefit is gaining 25 minutes of free time each way—can’t we all use an extra few minutes of that in our day?

I hope to see everyone on the 213.

Nancy Perry

East Haven