I understand that the current numbers suggest that IF one was going to cut out lines, the Westhampton would be one to consider. What I don’t understand are the whys that would explain this route’s performance problem.

What I’m saying is that we are now heading into an uncertain time in which there could be a dramatic drop-off in the use of private cars. If that happens, this very same bus line may once again become an essential part of how people get around.

This is a time that calls for vision beyond relying on statistics that are out-of-date if they are three months old. Look at what’s been happening to the gas-guzzling lifestyle in the last six months.

Both Richmond and the Commonwealth of Virginia need to resolve that mass transportation options won’t shrivel, just when more people are likely to need them.

* WH16 has is one of the 8 worst performing local routes that GRTC runs.

* The farebox accounts for only 16% of the cost of the run.

* In addition, there are only 12 riders per hour on the line.

* The WP16 brought in $149,000 and cost $912,000 last year, a $763,000 deficit.

Also, looking at the GRTC routes map (PDF), it appears that routes #2 and #13 are viable alternatives to route #16.