Cobb transit system facing two-year shortfall

By Janel Davis

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Cobb Community Transit riders could face higher fares and service cuts as the county looks for ways to help the financially struggling transit system.

The system, which provides bus service throughout Cobb and to downtown Atlanta, is facing significant budget shortfalls over the next two fiscal years, according to information from county transportation officials.

CCT riders made almost 4.6 million trips in 2009, according to a county report.

Commissioners will discuss the CCT and the county's fiscal 2011 budget at a board meeting Tuesday. Public review of a proposed fare increase and service cuts is required before the county can implement the changes.

CCT is the latest public transportation system in the metro area facing financial difficulties. The Xpress regional commuter bus service could be out of money in the next fiscal year. MARTA is cutting service more than 10 percent, and Clayton County ended its local bus operation in March.