newgobus

Connecting East Texas 2026: A Regional Coordinated Transportation Plan

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:20:37 GMT

Improving mobility is an ongoing objective for persons living, working, or visiting the East Texas region. As the lead agency for our region, the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is working with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and a consultant team to prepare an update of the Regional Public Transportation Coordination Plan for Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties.

The 2026 Plan seeks to identify practical strategies for improving the day-to-day mobility of all residents of the region, but especially older adults, persons with disabilities, low-income individuals, zero-car households, area youth, persons with limited English proficiency, veterans, clients of workforce agencies, and employment/job seekers. It will include a variety of public participation opportunities including a bilingual (Spanish/English) project webpage, community survey, and focus groups with members of the target populations listed above. We will also conduct surveys of stakeholders and transportation providers to gain additional insight into the transportation needs and resources available to the region.

While public transportation plays a significant role in regional mobility, it is far from the only transportation provider. As such, we will be reaching out to many organizations that provide transportation services or support for transportation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the mobility resources available within East Texas communities.

All residents are encouraged to take the community survey by clicking here . If you are interested in participating in a focus group, you’ll have the opportunity to let us know at the end of the survey.

If you are an organization that serves any of the target populations listed above, have not received a stakeholder survey, and would like to complete a stakeholder survey and/or receive materials to distribute to those you serve, click here to send us your request . Make sure you include your email address so we can respond.

Free Holiday Transit Service Returns to Palestine

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:33:44 GMT

ETCOG is pleased to announce the return of Palestine’s Seasonal Transit Service, operated by GoBus and partially funded by Visit Palestine. This free evening and weekend shuttle will run from November 14 through December 28, helping residents and visitors enjoy holiday festivities across the city, including trips to the Texas State Railroad.

Whether you're heading to a local event, staying at one of the area’s hotels, or exploring downtown, GoBus makes it easy to get around. The flex route service includes scheduled stops at all major hotels and downtown destinations, and can also stop at other locations along the route upon request.

Each shuttle is handicap accessible and operated by highly trained ETCOG drivers, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for all passengers.

This seasonal service is designed to support community engagement and tourism during the holidays, making it easier for everyone to participate in Palestine’s festive offerings.

To learn more about the route or view the schedule, visit www.gobustransit.com/palestine-seasonal-service.

Join Us for a Grand Opening Ceremony for our New GoBus Maintenance Facility!

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 20:27:58 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is proud to announce the grand opening of its new GoBus Maintenance Facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, November 13, at 2:00 PM. The celebration will take place at the new facility, located directly behind ETCOG’s headquarters at 3800 Stone Road in Kilgore, and the public is invited to attend.

This new $3.3 million facility, funded by the Federal Transit Administration and the Texas Department of Transportation, represents a major step forward for the GoBus program. With two work bays, a dedicated wash bay, training rooms, and expanded fleet parking, the facility will serve as the home base for both GoBus administrative and maintenance teams.

“This facility allows us to take a more proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and safety,” said Vince Huerta, ETCOG Transportation Director. “Having the ability to complete repairs in-house means we can get vehicles back on the road faster and continue delivering safe, reliable transportation services.”

The GoBus program provides public transit service across ETCOG’s 14-county region. By investing in in-house maintenance, ETCOG will be able to improve efficiency, conduct more thorough inspections, and reduce repair turnaround times—all while keeping service reliable for East Texas riders.

Community members, partners, and stakeholders are encouraged to join ETCOG staff for the ribbon-cutting and facility tour. The event not only celebrates the opening of a new building but also marks an investment in the future of regional transit and the people who rely on it every day.

GoBus Pilot Programs Deliver Strong Results Across East Texas

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 18:33:36 GMT

The GoBus Service Expansion Pilot Programs are proving to be a major success, helping connect more people to the places they need to go. Launched earlier this year, GoBus added additional routes in several counties and the new GoNOW microtransit service in Palestine, which has already boosted ridership and expanded travel options for residents across the region.

ETCOG's Transportation Director, Vince Huerta, shared that the frequency of service from rural areas into nearby cities has increased by an average of 75 percent in the participating counties. In Palestine, the GoNOW microtransit service has grown ridership by 22 percent within its first few months.

“These are just a few of the measurable ways Service Expansion funds are directly benefiting our communities,” Huerta said. “Transportation isn’t just about mobility. It’s a lifeline for people to maintain independence, access medical care, secure jobs, and stay connected.”

The pilot programs have made immediate impacts in Henderson, Anderson, Cherokee, Camp, Upshur, Harrison, Marion, and Van Zandt counties. Residents now have new or expanded routes into larger cities such as Tyler and Longview, more frequent connections, and local microtransit options.

Community surveys and rider requests pointed to a need for more reliable connections to jobs, healthcare, and essential services. The Service Expansion Program is helping close those gaps and strengthen the entire 14-county region.

Huerta also recognized the support of TxDOT staff in making the pilot projects a reality. “Our TxDOT Public Transportation Coordinator, Nancy Hoehn, has been an essential part of making these programs successful, and we are grateful for her ongoing commitment and support,” he said.

GoBus will continue to monitor ridership, gather community feedback, and review performance to determine next steps. For more information about routes, schedules, and GoBus services, visit www.gobustransit.com or call 903-218-6450 .

GoBus Wins Marketing Spotlight Award from South West Transit Association

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 13:23:31 GMT

Pictured left to right: Baylea Evans, GoBus Strategic Development Manager; David Cleveland, ETCOG Executive Director; Lindsay Vanderbilt, Communications Director; Dylan Cook, Communications Specialist; Katey Pilgram, Associate Director of Transportation

The East Texas Council of Governments ' rural transit system, GoBus, is pleased to be a recipient of the South West Transit Association's (SWTA) Annual Spotlight Awards. The awards celebrate the exceptional efforts and contributions of transit agencies and organizations across the region that have significantly impacted their communities.

ETCOG received the Hit The Spot: Social Media Award for rural systems for our campaign, “On the GO with GoBus!” produced to promote service availability in the rural areas surrounding Longview for residents of White Oak, Lakeport, Hallsville, and Gladewater.

"We are thrilled to win a Spotlight Award for our social media campaign developed to raise awareness of public transportation options available within the Longview Urbanized Zone, but outside the city limits where city bus service is not available. These communities, though part of the urban area, were without access to reliable transit. Through TxDOT funding and a unique partnership between Longview Transit and GoBus, we were able to extend service to these underserved areas. The campaign focused on educating residents about their new access to affordable, reliable transportation options,” said ETCOG's Communications Director, Lindsay Vanderbilt.

Our Associate Director of Transportation, Katey Pilgram, joined other award recipients and marketing experts to share details on their award-winning campaigns and projects at the SWTA Summer University Conference held July 27-30, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The awards – reviewed and judged by marketing and communication professionals at transit agencies and private marketing firms – are among the oldest awards recognizing marketing campaigns and projects in the public transportation industry, first awarded in 1990. SWTA's membership covers Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Texas Veterans Commission Awards ETCOG $250K for Veteran Transport with GoBus

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 14:27:28 GMT

Recently, the Texas Veterans Commission's (TVC) Fund for Veterans' Assistance (FVA) announced its largest funding in the 16-year history of FVA programs, with 213 grants totaling $46,315,000 to provide services to an estimated 40,000 veterans. ETCOG is proud to be one of the grant recipients selected with $250,000 of those funds to provide GoBus transportation services for veterans in our 14-county service region.

"It is an honor to receive this funding award from the Texas Veterans Commission and Chair Koerner, which allows us to continue our mission to support all East Texas veterans," said Vince Huerta, GoBus Director. "We are dedicated to growing the program and look forward to assisting more veterans this year."

With the grant, our public transit system, GoBus, will fund trips to and from medical, dental, and mental health appointments, as well as trips for basic needs such as grocery stores, community meetings, voting, court appearances, and tax offices. These trips are available to veterans, veteran spouses and dependents, survivor spouses, and active military personnel.

The grant is in partnership with over $46.3 million in grants for veterans, Governor Abbott announced on May 20 . “Texas is forever indebted to the brave men and women who answered the call to serve in our nation's military,” said Governor Abbott. “The State of Texas is home to over 1.5 million veterans—more than any other state. This has shaped our mission to provide wide-ranging services for veterans and their families. With over $46,315,000 in state grants, Texas will help thousands of veterans and their families access vital support and resources needed to thrive in our great state. Texas will always support our veterans and honor their sacrifices to our state and our nation.”

Find out about all veteran transport services GoBus offers by visiting www.gobustransit.com/govet .

GoBus Facility Nearing Completion

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:26:59 GMT

New Home for Administrative and Maintenance Teams Opens This Summer

ETCOG is excited to share progress on the new GoBus Transportation Facility, which is nearing completion and expected to open this summer. This milestone marks a major step forward in supporting our growing fleet and providing more efficient, reliable transit services across our 14-county region.

Initially announced last year, the facility broke ground following a comprehensive feasibility study conducted by the GoBus team in 2021. The study revealed that an in-house maintenance center would significantly improve operational efficiency, enable more thorough vehicle inspections, and reduce repair turnaround time. The project, funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), was approved by the ETCOG Executive Committee in FY 2023 with a budget of $3.3 million.

Once complete, the new facility will serve as the home base for both GoBus administrative and maintenance teams. Designed to support the eastern portion of the region, it includes two work bays, a dedicated wash bay, training rooms, additional fleet parking, and is fully equipped with tools and resources to support ongoing maintenance needs.

This strategic investment ensures GoBus can continue to grow and adapt while meeting the needs of our communities more effectively than ever.

GoBus’ GoNOW Microtransit Completes 400 Trips in First Month, Boosting Anderson County Ridership by 25%!

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 17:32:00 GMT

Exciting news for Anderson County residents! GoBus’ new on-demand microtransit service, GoNOW, has completed its first month of operation in Palestine—and the results are in! In its first 30 days, GoNOW provided approximately 400 trips, averaging 20 rides per day, helping to increase overall ridership in Anderson County by 25%. This strong demand highlights the community’s need for flexible, on-demand transportation.

Launched on March 1, GoNOW makes getting around easier than ever. Like Uber, riders can request a trip through a mobile app or by phone, ensuring quick pickups, shorter wait times, and the trusted reliability of GoBus.

For just $2 per trip, GoNOW operates Monday through Friday, 7 AM - 3 PM, covering a 10-square-mile area in Palestine. Seniors may qualify for sponsored trips, and as always, veterans and active military ride free.

The easiest way to ride? Download the GoBus app!

Using GoNOW is simple:

�� Download the app (App Store for iOS or Google Play for Android)

�� Call our office at 903-218-6450 to register an account

✉️ Sign up with your designated email address and chosen password

�� Click "Book a New Trip" and get moving!

With a successful first month behind us, GoBus looks forward to continuing to provide this convenient service to Palestine residents. If you haven’t tried GoNOW yet, now is the perfect time! For more information, call 903-218-6450.

ETCOG to Host Hiring Event for GoBus Public Transit Positions on March 27

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 21:08:31 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) and GoBus will host a Hiring Event for public transit driver positions on Thursday, March 27. GoBus is ETCOG's rural, demand-response public transit system, with approximately 75 vehicles, making around 500 trips a day, five days a week, throughout 14 counties in East Texas. We are working with Compunnel Staffing to hire local and regional public transit drivers for full-time and part-time positions. The hiring event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Workforce Solutions East Texas, located at 4100 Troup Highway, Tyler, TX 75703.

"We’re excited to return to Tyler for this event, which continues to be a great success year after year. We truly appreciate our partnership with Workforce Solutions East Texas for hosting and supporting this job fair. It’s a perfect opportunity for job seekers to connect with our GoBus team, learn more about our services, ask questions, and even be considered for an on-site interview," said ETCOG Assistant Executive Director Brandy Brannon.

"GoBus is integral to the region and its communities, providing connectivity, fostering economic activity, and ensuring safe, reliable, and friendly transportation services. GoBus staff are dedicated and caring individuals representing the core of East Texans. In seeking new team members, we hope to present a culture that prioritizes the community and those who work to aid its citizens," said ETCOG's Director of Transportation, Vince Huerta. "We welcome new individuals with support through an open door policy, competitive pay, and plenty of growth opportunities. We are excited to build upon the amazing GoBus family!"

Positions are available to serve in Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. ETCOG is seeking applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of two years of professional driving and customer service experience. A CDL is preferred but not required.

GoBus to Launch On-Demand Microtransit Pilot Project in Palestine!

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 17:44:04 GMT

Exciting news for Anderson County residents! GoBus is expanding its services with GoNOW, an innovative microtransit pilot program launching on March 1 in Palestine, Texas.

GoNOW brings flexible, on-demand transportation to the community, making it easier than ever to get where you need to go. Like Uber, riders can request a trip through a mobile app or by phone, ensuring quick pickups, shorter wait times, and the trusted reliability of GoBus.

For just $2 per trip, GoNOW will operate Monday through Friday, 7 AM - 3 PM, covering a 10-square-mile area in Palestine. Seniors may qualify for sponsored trips, and as always, veterans and active military ride free.

Stay tuned for more details on how to ride with GoNOW and experience the future of public transit in East Texas! This is a demonstration project funded by the Texas Department of Transportation. For more information, visit www.gobustransit.com or call 903-218-6450.

GoBus Announces Sunday Pilot Service for Canton Cruiser During First Monday Trade Days

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:41:58 GMT

GoBus, East Texas’ premier public transportation provider, is excited to announce a pilot expansion of its popular Canton Cruiser service during the world-renowned First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas. Beginning December 2024, the Canton Cruiser will operate on Sundays, providing a new opportunity for visitors to enjoy hassle-free transportation at the market.

The Sunday pilot service will run on the following dates:

December 1, 2024
January 5, 2025
February 2, 2025
March 2, 2025
April 4, 2025

Sunday operations will mirror the current Friday and Saturday schedule, with free shuttles running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM . Each trolley is handicap accessible and operated by highly trained drivers employed by the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG).

The Canton Cruiser, funded in part by the Canton Visitors Bureau, has become a vital resource for shoppers attending First Monday Trade Days. Known for its convenience and reliability, the service not only moves visitors between key locations but can also assist in transporting products.

“The Canton Cruiser has been an incredible asset for First Monday Trade Days transporting approximately 700 riders each weekend, and we’re thrilled to extend this service to Sundays on a trial basis,” said ETCOG's Transportation Director, Vince Huerta. “This pilot aims to better serve the community and the many visitors who flock to Canton for this iconic event.”

This pilot program reflects GoBus' ongoing commitment to enhancing public transportation options in East Texas while supporting local tourism and economic growth.

For more information on the Canton Cruiser, including route details and accessibility features, visit www.gobustransit.com/canton-cruiser or contact GoBus at 1-800-590-3371 .

We look forward to serving you on Sundays during First Monday Trade Days—see you at the market!

GoBus Announces Pilot Routes in Four Counties

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:34:03 GMT

We are excited to announce the launch of new pilot routes in four counties, offering expanded transportation options for our riders! These routes will provide additional service into our nearby metro areas, helping more people access key destinations.

Henderson County to Tyler: GoBus will offer out-of-county service from Henderson County to Tyler on Tuesdays and Thursdays, following the same schedule as the current Tuesday service.
Camp/Upshur County to Longview: A new pilot route will connect Camp and Upshur Counties to Longview on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please note that this will not impact the out-of-county service from Upshur County to Tyler on Thursdays.
Local Service in Cherokee County: We are introducing a local service route within Cherokee County on Tuesdays. This new route will not affect the out-of-county service to Tyler on Tuesdays.

We hope these pilot routes will better serve our riders' transportation needs. Keep an eye out for more details about schedules and stops, and thank you for choosing GoBus!

GoBus Wins Marketing Spotlight Award from South West Transit Association

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:54:30 GMT

Pictured Left to Right: ETCOG’s Transportation Director, Vince Huerta; SWTA Executive Director, Rich Sampson; and ETCOG’s Communications Director, Lindsay Vanderbilt

The East Texas Council of Governments' rural transit system, GoBus, is pleased to be a recipient of the South West Transit Association's (SWTA) Annual Spotlight Awards . The awards celebrate the exceptional efforts and contributions of transit agencies and organizations across the region that have significantly impacted their communities.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the SWTA Annual Spotlight Awards," said Rich Sampson, Executive Director of the Southwest Transit Association. "Every year, marketing professionals throughout the SWTA Nation create exceptional campaigns showcasing their unique passion for creativity. It is an honor to continue this tradition."

ETCOG received the Hit the Spot Electronic Media Award for its GoBus testimonial video produced to promote GoBus and share how it benefits the surrounding 14 counties. Watch the video at https://youtu.be/7QFvdhkGK70 .

"We are thrilled to win a Spotlight Award for a video created highlighting how GoBus impacted the lives of two of our customers," said ETCOG's Communications Director, Lindsay Vanderbilt. "Transportation is a necessity, and we are proud to provide safe, reliable, and friendly services here in East Texas through GoBus."

Two members of the ETCOG team, Vince Huerta and Lindsay Vanderbilt, joined other award recipients and marketing experts to share details on their award-winning campaigns and projects at the SWTA Summer University Conference held July 28-31, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Three GoBus Drivers Earn CDL Licenses

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 21:16:59 GMT

Congratulations to Chris Thomas, Glenn George, and Michael Owens!

We are proud to announce that three of our dedicated GoBus drivers, Chris Thomas, Glenn George, and Michael Owens, have successfully earned their Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) with passenger endorsements. This accomplishment was made possible through the GoBus Transit CDL program, which we proudly sponsor to ensure our drivers are well-equipped to serve our 14-county service area in East Texas.

The CDL program is partnered with Overton ISD and consists of four half-days of hands-on training led by Sarah Tharp, the Transportation Director. After completing training, participants meet at Lindale ISD, which offers licensed third-party testing to earn the CDL.

After successfully completing the program and test, the driver will have a Class B Commercial Driver's License with Passenger, School Bus, and Airbrake endorsements!

Chris Thomas shared his motivation for participating in the program: "I wanted to learn how to safely drive a larger vehicle as needed for GoBus." He found the training on different laws about trucks and buses particularly beneficial, as it gave him greater insight into passenger and vehicle safety. Chris has applied his new knowledge to perform thorough pre-trip inspections, enhancing his daily duties and contributing to safer transportation services.

Glenn George was driven by the desire to be a great employee and the ability to drive all types of buses. He highlighted the hands-on training in Overton, TX, as the most beneficial part of the program. "The instructor made sure that I had all the information, and the one-on-one training was great," he said. Glenn believes the program made him a safer driver and kept him at the top of his driving game, enabling him to transport of his driving game, enabling him to transport customers safely and be aware of potential distractions.

Michael Owens saw the program as an opportunity to become a more skilled driver at little cost to himself and to be eligible for special projects requiring a CDL. He appreciated the extensive digital training, which provided a deep understanding of the laws and regulations for operating CDL vehicles. Michael has been able to apply this knowledge daily, improving his vehicle handling, braking, and evasive maneuver skills. He believes having more CDL drivers on the road enhances safety for everyone, including passengers and the community.

All three drivers agree that the GoBus Transit CDL Program significantly enhances transportation services in East Texas. By providing additional training, the program ensures that our drivers can operate larger vehicles safely, meet the community's transportation needs more effectively, and uphold GoBus's commitment to safety.

We are thrilled with the achievements of Chris, Glenn, and Michael and look forward to the continued impact of their skills on our community. Their dedication and the training they received underscore our mission to provide safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation across East Texas.

Join us in congratulating our drivers on this significant milestone and celebrating their contributions to making our community safer and better connected.

New GoBus Shuttle Service for Gregg County Courthouse Construction

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:56:38 GMT

As Methvin Street in front of the Gregg County Courthouse closed this month, the associated parking spots are lost to facilitate the construction of a new courthouse parking facility. ETCOG is proud to have begun a new partnership with Gregg County to help alleviate the parking challenges and ensure smoother transitions and continued access for courthouse visitors during construction.

ETCOG has contracted with the county to implement a shuttle service through its rural transit system, GoBus. This service will transport individuals from the parking lots off Cotton Street to the courthouse and back, operating Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The service for this temporary route is free to anyone seeking transport to the courthouse.

"We recognize everybody coming for jury duty is coming all at the same time, and we will be sure to be prepared for that influx of passengers," said ETCOG Director of Communications Lindsay Vanderbilt. "To accommodate peak times, GoBus is able to deploy additional buses making the routes simultaneously."

The construction project is visibly underway and expected to last approximately 15 months. During this time, GoBus, known for its safe, reliable, and friendly transit services across 14 counties in East Texas, will be at your service. For more information, visit www.gobustransit.com.

GoBus is Growing! In-House Maintenance Facility Underway

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:24:53 GMT

ETCOG proudly announces the groundbreaking of an in-house maintenance facility for GoBus. This facility will enable staff to implement thorough preventive safety measures on organizational vehicles throughout the 14-county region.

"Following years of research and planning, we are thrilled to be commencing the groundbreaking of construction," stated Transportation Director Vince Huerta.

The decision to establish an in-house facility stems from a comprehensive feasibility study conducted by the GoBus team in 2021. The study highlighted the benefits of such a facility, including a more proactive maintenance program, detailed inspections, and significant cost savings. The facility construction plan was approved by the ETCOG Executive Committee in FY 23, and the project broke ground last month.

"Having in-house maintenance will reduce turnaround time for vehicle repairs, allowing us to get them back on the road, assisting customers sooner and safer, said Huerta. "Ultimately, this opportunity allows us to continue our mission of providing safe, reliable, and friendly transportation services."

With a projected budget of $3.2 million, the facility will facilitate staff relocation and incorporate two vehicle bays, training rooms, and additional parking for regional vehicles.

Construction on the maintenance facility is due to wrap up by the end of the year.

Join us for a Hiring Event for GoBus Operator Positions May 14th

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:50:26 GMT

Tuesday, May 14th | Workforce Solutions East Texas - Tyler

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host a Hiring Event on Tuesday, May 14th, for part-time and PRN (as-needed) GoBus Operator positions. GoBus is a convenient and reliable service that spans 14 counties in the rural areas of East Texas. Our network provides transportation solutions, bridging the gap between urban areas and rural living to ensure that individuals in remote areas can access transportation. Whether you need a ride to the grocery store, doctor's appointment, friend's house, or work, we are your transportation provider! The hiring event will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Workforce Solutions East Texas, located at 4100 Troup Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703. Interested applicants may apply ahead online at www.etcog.org/employment .

"We’re looking forward to hosting every year! This is a perfect opportunity for people to come in to learn more about GoBus services, ask our team questions, and the opportunity to be considered for an on-site interview," said ETCOG Assistant Executive Director Brandy Brannon.

"GoBus is integral to the region and its communities, providing connectivity, fostering economic activity, and ensuring safe, reliable, and friendly transportation services. GoBus staff are dedicated and caring individuals representing the core of East Texans, and in seeking new team members, we hope to present a culture that prioritizes the community and those that work to aid its citizens," said ETCOG's Director of Transportation Vince Huerta. "We welcome new individuals with support through an open door policy, competitive pay, and plenty of growth opportunities. We are excited to build upon the amazing GoBus family!"

Positions are available in Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. ETCOG seeks applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of professional driving and customer service experience. While a CDL is preferred, it is not mandatory.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early for a scheduled interview on Tuesday, May 14th. Apply early at www.etcog.org/employment .

See a preview on what it is like to be a GoBus Operator!

GoBus Offers Service in Rural Areas Surrounding Longview

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:06:41 GMT

GoBus is a convenient and reliable service that spans 14 counties in the rural areas of East Texas. Our network provides transportation solutions, bridging the gap between urban areas and rural living to ensure individuals in remote areas have access to transportation. Whether you need a ride to the grocery store, doctor's appointment, friend's house, or work, we are your transportation provider!

Partnering with Longview Transit, GoBus complements existing services and expands accessibility. Within the Longview area, our services extend 3/4 mile off the Longview Transit route , offering commuters a seamless connection to their destinations. This collaborative effort enhances mobility for residents, allowing them to navigate the city and its neighboring cities with ease. As part of this partnership, GoBus also serves Gladewater, Hallsville, and Lakeport. Individuals in these locations can ride within each city or to and from Longview on specific days.

Book your trip in 3 easy steps:

Know where and when you want to travel. 24-hour advanced notice is required.
Know the addresses of your destinations when you call.
Call our office to schedule your trip.

All vehicles are ADA accessible and provide curb-to-curb service:

GoBus will pick you up at your residence and take you to the destination of your choice.
Call 903-215-8870 when you are ready for your return trip.

GoBus Wins AdWheel Marketing Award from the American Public Transportation Association

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:36:44 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments' rural transit system, GoBus , is proud to be a recipient of the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) annual AdWheel awards, which recognize excellence in marketing and outreach efforts by transit providers nationwide.

The APTA AdWheel Awards fosters creativity and innovation within the public transportation industry, highlighting best marketing practices that contribute to the betterment of public transportation. The selection process involves evaluations by industry experts for creativity, impact, community engagement, and overall effectiveness.

“I am proud of our Communications, Human Resources, and Transportation teams for collaborating effectively to address an ongoing staffing need within our agency. To receive national recognition for these efforts means a lot to me and all of us here at ETCOG!” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

ETCOG received the award in the Special Event subcategory for the Best Marketing and Communications on Workforce Development. The award acknowledges team effort in hosting a one-day hiring fair dedicated to GoBus Operator positions. The event featured comprehensive activities, including on-site interviews, video highlights, and bus tours, providing prospective candidates with a glimpse of transit operations and a seamless hiring process for human resources. This recognition celebrates our commitment to workforce development and highlights the success of ETCOG’s strategic marketing and communication initiatives in attracting top talent.

"We are honored to receive this prestigious APTA award,” said ETCOG Communications Director Lindsay Vanderbilt.” This recognition is a reflection of the dedication and creativity of our team and the collaboration across our agency to solve transportation hiring challenges.”

A member of the ETCOG communications team joined other award recipients and marketing experts to share details on their award-winning campaigns and projects at the APTA Marketing Workshop held February 12-14, 2043, in New Orleans, Louisiana. APTA is a nonprofit international association of over 1,500 public and private sector member organizations and is the only association in North America that represents all modes of public transportation, including bus, paratransit, light rail, commuter rail, subways, waterborne services, and intercity and high-speed passenger rail.

Your input is needed! Join our public meetings to help address transportation barriers.

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 18:23:24 GMT

Date: November 3 and November 17

Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM

Location: Tyler and Kilgore

EasTexConnects is committed to improving the quality of life in East Texas through transportation choices. We're seeking East Texas agency and non-profit leaders to join upcoming public meetings to help address transportation barriers.

Meetings will be held on November 3 and November 17 in Tyler and Kilgore to provide information on transit services available in East Texas and allow for public comment and collaboration.

November 3, 2023
Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce

Genecov Room

12:00 - 1:00 PM

November 17, 2023

East Texas Council of Governments
12:00 - 1:00 PM

"As a non-profit CEO, I've witnessed our organizations grappling with transportation challenges for our clients. Our leaders are eager to be part of the solution for our communities. Now, we have a long-awaited chance to effect positive change by collaborating with transportation experts. We need your input to address your client's unique challenges and barriers and drive solutions. Join us to share your invaluable input and catalyze change together. Lunch is on us, and let's get the ideas flowing," said Linda Oyer, EasTexConnects chair.

The EasTexConnects Committee is administered by ETCOG and comprised of elected officials or their appointees, citizens, and representatives of social service agencies, local transportation providers, and businesses. The committee's purpose is to improve the quality of life in East Texas through transportation choices.

TxDOT Invites the Public to Engage in Statewide Active Transportation Plan

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 18:55:31 GMT

Population growth and emerging technology make the future hard to predict. TxDOT needs your input as we look to the future of transit in Texas. Learn about the planning efforts and provide your feedback by taking our online survey at https://ow.ly/P0il50Q0Kf e Facebook Social Network

ETCOG Awards 2023 Employee of the Year

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 13:58:43 GMT

We are excited to announce that the Employee of the Year award goes to Katey Pilgram, who has served with ETCOG for fifteen years in the Transportation division.

Katey began her journey at ETCOG in 2008 through a temp agency, getting her start as a Dispatcher. In time, she moved up to Call Center and Technology Supervisor, then manager, and she was last promoted in 2018 to Transit Operations Manager.

“Katey is an exceptional professional who takes pride in her work. She always follows through on her assigned tasks and looks for ways to help her colleagues succeed," said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. "She has proven to be a reliable, kind, and encouraging member of the ETCOG Team! We are very fortunate and blessed to have her!”

When nominations take place, ETCOG has characteristics to consider.

Display a positive attitude, an open mind, and a willingness to make changes
Communicate and serve customers/sub-contractors/coworkers effectively and efficiently
Perform to the best of his/her ability, giving 110%
Recognize and act when a fellow employee needs assistance

In our employee of the year nomination ballot, a coworker said, "Katey's embodiment of a positive attitude, open-mindedness, and willingness to make changes has had a profound impact on our organization. She consistently approaches her work with enthusiasm and optimism, inspiring her colleagues to embrace new ideas and adapt to evolving situations. Katey's ability to embrace change and encourage others to do the same has greatly contributed to our success in a rapidly evolving industry."

"I am truly humbled and honored to have been chosen as the ETCOG Employee of the Year. The past 15 years have been an incredible journey filled with growth, learning, and invaluable opportunities. I am grateful for the trust and support of my colleagues and the organization," said Katey.

ETCOG Awarded TVC Grant to Assist with Veteran Transportation

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 15:44:24 GMT

In a heartwarming ceremony held at Habitat for Humanity of Smith County in Tyler on September 13, the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) presented $1,840,000 in grants to nine East Texas organizations. Among the recipients was the East Texas Council of Governments, which received a $250,000 grant to support its veteran transportation programs and services through GoBus. The grant presentation was made by TVC Vice Chair and Air Force veteran Kimberlee Shaneyfelt in a significant event showcasing Texas' commitment to serving its veterans.

GoBus, operated by the East Texas Council of Governments, is a vital lifeline for veterans in the region. The recently awarded $250,000 grant underscores their unwavering dedication to improving veterans' lives by providing accessible and reliable transportation. This grant will expand their services, making essential resources like medical appointments, job interviews, and family connections more accessible to veterans, eliminating transportation barriers. Texas' commitment to veterans shines through in this grant, reflecting its recognition of veterans' sacrifices and pledge to support them in civilian life.

These grants are made possible through a combination of funding sources, reflecting the state's dedication to supporting its veterans. The Texas Lottery Commission's games earmarked for veteran assistance generate a significant portion of the funding. Additionally, funds are collected from individual donations through driver's licenses, licenses to carry a handgun, outdoor recreation licenses for hunting and fishing, and vehicle registrations. This diverse funding approach ensures that veterans receive the support they need from various sources within the community.

GoBus Receives 2023 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 13:45:36 GMT

ETCOG’s rural transit system, GoBus, has been awarded a 2023 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for its “Bridging Transit Gaps with GoBus” project.

The project involved creating partnerships with Longview Transit and Tyler Transit to extend GoBus services to special events and vulnerable populations residing in their urbanized zones, particularly those who do not have access to a bus route within walking distance. Through these coordinated projects, GoBus has been able to provide essential mobility options and extend its reach to fill critical transportation voids and enhance transportation services for the community it serves.

NADO is a Washington, DC-based association that promotes programs and policies to strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards showcase organizations for noteworthy projects and practices in rural and small metropolitan transportation planning, program delivery, and special initiatives. Award winners received national recognition during the 2023 National Summit on Rural Road Safety in Oklahoma City, OK, September 12-14.

“The Excellence in Regional Transportation Awards program showcases effective and creative transportation initiatives that improve accessibility, mobility, safety, and quality of life in regions around the United States,” shared current NADO President and Northern Arizona Council of Governments Executive Director Chris Fetzer. “Programs and projects like ‘Bridging Transit Gaps with GoBus’ foster community and economic connections and promote effective transportation networks.”

ETCOG’s Transportation Director, Vince Huerta, joined other award recipients and transit experts at the Rural Road Safety Summit to accept the award and deliver a workshop on using technology to improve transit services.

“GoBus, through its 'Bridging Transit Gaps’ project, has not only connected communities but also bridged the divide between opportunity and accessibility. This Excellence in Regional Transportation Award is a recognition of our dedication to leaving no one behind on the road to progress," said Huerta.

GoBus Wins Marketing Spotlight Awards from South West Transit Association

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 14:23:16 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments' rural transit system, GoBus, is pleased to be a recipient of the South West Transit Association's (SWTA) annual Spotlight Awards , which recognizes excellence in marketing and outreach efforts produced by transit providers across SWTA's eight-state region.

The SWTA Annual Spotlight Awards aim to foster excellence and innovation within the transit industry, highlighting best practices and inspiring continuous improvement. The selection process involved rigorous evaluation by a panel of industry experts, who assessed each entry based on criteria such as creativity, impact, community engagement, and overall effectiveness.

"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the SWTA Annual Spotlight Awards," said Rich Sampson, Executive Director of the Southwest Transit Association. "These exceptional projects and initiatives showcase the dedication, creativity, and commitment of public transportation agencies in delivering high-quality services and enhancing the lives of communities they serve."

ETCOG received four awards for campaigns or materials produced in promoting the GoBus hiring events , the Canton Cruiser program , the East Texas Giving Day partnership with Camp V , and an educational video for potential hires. Awards received include:

Spotlight Campaign – Category 1 Systems
Hit The Spot Award: Electronic – Category 1 Systems
Hit The Spot Award: Event – Category 1 Systems
Hit The Spot Award: Social Media – Category 1 Systems

"This is a very exciting win, and the Communications team is delighted to be recognized in this way," said ETCOG's Communications Director, Lindsay Vanderbilt. "Staff has taken great measures to diversify communication delivery and heighten campaign effectiveness. It’s been great to collaborate with so many individuals on the ETCOG team to bring these messages to the public."

A member of the ETCOG communications team joined other award recipients and marketing experts to share details on their award-winning campaigns and projects at the SWTA Summer University Conference held August 14-16, 2023, in Witchita, Kansas.

The awards are among the oldest awards recognizing marketing campaigns and projects in the public transportation industry, first awarded in 1990. SWTA's membership covers Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Steering Clear of Dangers: National Traffic Awareness Month

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 13:22:10 GMT

National Traffic Awareness Month is a month-long observance dedicated to promoting road safety, educating the public about the risks and consequences of reckless driving, and encouraging responsible road behavior. This initiative aims to bring attention to the alarming statistics of traffic accidents and fatalities that occur every year due to largely preventable factors.

During National Traffic Awareness Month, various key focus areas are highlighted to educate and engage the public in discussions about road safety:

Distracted Driving: The prevalence of smartphones and electronic devices has heightened instances of distracted driving. It's crucial to maintain focus on the road, avoid phone use while driving, and opt for hands-free technology when needed.
Prioritizing Safety on the Road: Responsible road behavior includes avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of designated drivers, ride-sharing, and responsible alcohol consumption.
Speed Management: Speeding contributes to accidents and magnifies the severity of injuries in collisions. Road users are reminded to observe speed limits and drive prudently, considering road conditions.
Seat Belt Awareness: Wearing seat belts is a simple yet effective measure to reduce injury risks in crashes. National Traffic Awareness emphasizes seat belt usage for all vehicle occupants.
Inclusive Road Safety: Road safety encompasses drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Initiatives educate motorists and pedestrians about crosswalk safety, designated bike lanes, and adherence to traffic rules.

Community Involvement: National Traffic Awareness Month encourages local communities, schools, businesses, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate in spreading awareness. Workshops, seminars, safety demonstrations, and awareness campaigns are organized to educate people of all ages about the importance of responsible road behavior.

The Role of Technology: Technology plays a significant role in promoting road safety during this month. Public service announcements, social media campaigns, and smartphone apps are used to reach a wider audience with messages about safe driving practices and avoiding distractions on the road.

Government Initiatives: Many government agencies also take this opportunity to introduce new road safety regulations, increase law enforcement presence, and initiate stricter penalties for traffic violations. These efforts aim to create a safer driving environment for everyone.

National Traffic Awareness Month is a timely reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. By fostering a culture of responsible driving and promoting awareness about the dangers of reckless behavior on the roads, we can work together to reduce traffic accidents and save lives. This August, let's join hands and commit to prioritizing safety while navigating the streets, not just for ourselves but for the well-being of all road users.

GoBus Operations Manager Katey Pilgram Selected to Serve on Statewide Committee

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 13:18:22 GMT

GoBus is proud to announce the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Planning and Reporting Team has selected Operations Manager, Katey Pilgram, to serve as a member of the prestigious Statewide Multimodal Transit Plan Steering Committee.

The Statewide Multimodal Transit Plan Steering Committee is an integral body responsible for guiding and shaping the development of a comprehensive transit plan for the entire state. Its purpose is to foster collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, transit operators, and community representatives, to ensure the effective implementation of multimodal transportation systems.

"I am honored to have been selected to serve on this important committee," said Katey. "I look forward to working with my colleagues to develop a transit plan that meets the needs of all Texans."

Pilgram has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of GoBus' goals and objectives, and a keen awareness of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of multimodal transit. These qualities, combined with her extensive experience in overseeing GoBus' operations, make her an ideal candidate to represent rural transportation on this steering committee.

"Katey's expertise and insights will be invaluable to the committee," said ETCOG's Transportation Director, Vince Huerta. "I am confident that she will make a significant contribution to the development of sustainable, efficient, and accessible transportation systems that will benefit the community and beyond."

By participating in this influential committee, Pilgram will have the opportunity to contribute her expertise, exchange insights with other transportation professionals, and help shape the future of statewide transportation initiatives.

The Statewide Multimodal Transit Plan Steering Committee is scheduled to meet for the first time in August.

GoBus Receives Good Maintenance Score from TxDOT Audit

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 13:47:07 GMT

GoBus is proud to announce that a recent maintenance audit completed by TxDOT resulted in the designation of 100% compliance for our GoBus vehicles. Our region's TxDOT Public Transportation Coordinator, Nancy Hoehn, conducts the maintenance audit. TxDOT identifies three or more vehicles and requests all documentation, such as preventative maintenance records and repair logs. They also inspect the buses at the beginning and end of the day to ensure everything is in good condition, such as the lights, fluids, tires, AC/Heat, lift, safety equipment, etc. This audit ensures that the vehicles are being cared for properly and operated in the safest condition possible.

“During the last biennial maintenance audit, we discovered we were not as organized as we had liked to be, so we quickly went to workThe body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.developing and implementing processes for improvement. These proactive changes have had a significant impact, resulting in a flawless review in terms of vehicle safety and preventative maintenance this year," said Preston Garcia, ETCOG's Transportation Development & Compliance Manager.

ETCOG Announces New Leadership for CEO-RTPO Board

Thu, 25 May 2023 18:19:13 GMT

Congratulations to Judge Leward LaFleur - Chair, Judge AJ Mason - Vice Chair, & Judge Chad Sims - Executive Committee

ETCOG is pleased to announce new leadership for its Chief Elected Officials – Rural Transportation Planning Organization (CEO–RTPO) Board. At a recent meeting, the CEO–RTPO Board voted Marion County Judge Leward LaFleur as Chair, re-elected Camp County Judge AJ Mason as Vice Chair, and designated Judge Chad Sims to its Executive Committee.

The CEO–RTPO Board consists of the county judges from each of the 14 counties served by ETCOG, the Mayors of Longview and Tyler, and the three Texas Department of Transportation District Engineers that serve the ETCOG region. The Board serves a dual function of shared oversight of the region's workforce programs with the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board and working directly with TXDOT to ensure that transportation priorities are developed and solutions implemented for the region's rural communities.

"With deep admiration and respect for my colleagues, I express my sincere appreciation for their confidence in calling me to serve as Chairman of the Chief Elected Officials –Rural Transportation Planning Organization Board. I have such esteem for these county judicial and city leaders, who sacrificially serve the needs and interests of our East Texas. Together, as servants of the public's trust, we will continue to confront the challenges and seize the opportunities for the future of the 14 counties and cities within our region. With rich natural resources, the beauty of our lands, coupled with the values and strong work ethic of our people, East Texas sits in a strategic position to grow economically while maintaining the quality of life we all enjoy. As a son of Gregg County, God called me back to my East Texas roots after my service to our country through the U.S. Navy. Upon returning home to the piney woods, I had a burden in my heart to invest my life in serving my fellow East Texans. As I do that, I ask for the prayers of my colleagues and the people of East Texas," said Marion County Judge Leward LaFleur.

Judge LaFleur joined the board in 2018 and has served on its Executive Committee since 2021.

"I have worked with Judge LaFleur for many years and am looking forward to what he will bring to ETCOG," said Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt. "Our counties will only benefit from this next generation of leadership, direction, and integrity as he moves into this new position."

"I was honored to nominate Judge LaFleur to lead the CEO–RTPO Board," said Harrison County Judge Chad Sims. "Since he grew up in Gregg County and now lives and works in Marion County, he will be a thoughtful and supportive leader for all the counties represented by the Board. More than ever, we need leaders in East Texas that will work to benefit all areas. Growth together is much more important than a singular focus. Judge LaFleur will make a great chairman for our CEO–RTPO Board."

Judge AJ Mason joined the board in 2016 and has served as its Vice Chair and on the Executive Committee since 2018. The CEO-RTPO Board Executive Committee is comprised of Chair LaFleur, Vice Chair Mason, Rusk County Judge Joel Hale, Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis, and its newest added member, Judge Chad Sims, who joined the board in 2019.

"Continuing to work with the other members of the CEO-RTPO board presents a great opportunity to serve our region as a whole. Bringing that knowledge and information back to Camp County is beneficial to the citizens I represent. Under Judge LaFleur's chairmanship, our region will continue to face new challenges in a productive way that will benefit all East Texans," said Camp County Judge AJ Mason.

"I'm honored to get to serve alongside these other county judges. I hope to make a positive difference not only on the workforce and employment side but also with our TxDOT Engineers to help with transportation. I do want to thank the ETCOG staff who work so diligently, often behind the scenes, for all 14 counties represented," said Harrison County Judge Chad Sims.

Under the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act, the CEO Board is responsible for the leadership and board appointments to the local workforce development board. The CEOs partner with the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board to build a premier workforce in the region and are the primary source of local workforce policy.

ETCOG formed its RTPO in 2009 to provide a forum for local elected officials to establish rural transportation project priorities and planning and provide direct input to TxDOT concerning those priorities for areas not included in a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Through the RTPO, all 14 of our counties and those cities that are not served by the Longview or Tyler MPOs can deliver a unified message to state and federal decision-makers concerning transportation needs and priorities.

The Board meets during the April, August, and December months to address the joint business agenda of the CEO–RTPO Board in a blended meeting format. The Executive Committee meets on behalf of the full board when needs emerge between regularly scheduled meeting dates. The full membership of the CEO–RTPO Board can be viewed at www.etcog.org/about#GoverningBoards .

ETCOG Staff Member Receives Rising Star Award from Texas Transit Association

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:54:17 GMT

Preston Garcia received recognition for his work and contributions to further public transit inTexas

The Texas Transit Association (TTA) recognized ETCOG's Transportation Development & Compliance Manager, Preston Garcia, as its 2023 Rising Star. Each year, TTA selects individuals, elected officials, and agencies who have made positive contributions to the transit industry and the State of Texas for its annual awards. Preston was honored to accept the award last week in Corpus Christi at the Annual Conference, Expo, and Roadeo hosted by TTA.

TTA's Rising Star Award is given to any young employee in the field of transit, age 30 and younger, for exemplary or innovative work to further public transit in Texas.

"In a relatively short time of two years in transit, Preston has hit the ground running," said ETCOG's Transportation Director Vince Huerta. "Since joining our team, Preston has developed and implemented many efficiencies that have led to expanded services, increased ridership, and additional revenue. A few highlights would include streamlining maintenance processes to bring the GoBus fleet to 100% compliance with the Texas Department of Transportation. As a result of implementing these processes and launching new maintenance software, the invoice backlog was significantly decreased, and payment to vendors increased. Additionally, through his business development efforts, Preston has successfully initiated agreements with cities, counties, and other organizations, allowing for expanded services and increased local revenue. We are so proud he is being recognized for these deserving achievements."

ETCOG has been an active member of the Texas Transit Association for many years in representation of its rural transit agency, GoBus. GoBus is available for all rural residents to access safe, reliable, and friendly public transportation. GoBus provides daily local service within Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood Counties and the non-urbanized areas of Gregg and Smith counties. GoBus provides trips from the rural areas into the urbanized areas of Longview or Tyler on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Trips can be booked by calling 800-590-3371 to speak with the dispatch office or by visiting www.GoBusTransit.com .

April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 20:02:34 GMT

Distracted driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads. Cell phone use — specifically, texting, talking, and social media use — has become the most common distraction. Other risky actions include adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, eating and drinking. By driving distracted, you’re robbing yourself of seconds that you may need to avoid a close call or deadly crash.

Drive Responsibly

In 2021, distracted driving killed 3,522 people. April, which is national Distracted Driving Awareness Month, is a good time to regroup and take responsibility for the choices we make when we’re on the road. Follow these safety tips for a safe ride:

Need to send a text? Pull over and park your car in a safe location.
Designate your passenger as your “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages.
Do not scroll through apps while driving. Struggling not to text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of the vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

The Consequences

During a portion of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, from April 3 through 10, you may see increased law enforcement on the roadways as part of the national paid media campaign U Drive. U Text. U Pay . This campaign reminds drivers of the deadly dangers and the legal consequences – including fines – of texting behind the wheel.

Take Action

Remind your friends and family: If you’re in the driver’s seat, it’s the only thing you should be doing. No distractions.
If your driver is texting or otherwise distracted, tell them to stop and focus on the road.
Ask your friends to join you in pledging not to drive distracted . You could save a life. Share your pledge on social media to spread the word — #JustDrive.

ETCOG to Host Hiring Event for GoBus Operator Positions April 27th

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 13:39:24 GMT

Thursday, April 27 | Workforce Solutions East Texas - Tyler

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host a Hiring Event for part-time and PRN (as-needed) GoBus Operator positions on Thursday, April 27. GoBus is ETCOG's rural, demand response public transit system with about 30 vehicles on the road making approximately 500 trips a day, five days a week, throughout 14 counties in East Texas. The hiring event will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Workforce Solutions East Texas, located at 4100 Troup Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703. Interested applicants may apply ahead online at www.etcog.org/ employment .

"GoBus is integral to the region and its communities, providing connectivity, fostering economic activity, and ensuring safe, reliable, and friendly transportation services. GoBus staff are dedicated and caring individuals representing the core of East Texans, and in seeking new team members, we hope to present a culture that prioritizes the community and those that work to aid its citizens," said ETCOG's Director of Transportation Vince Huerta. "We welcome new individuals with support through an open door policy, competitive pay, and plenty of growth opportunities. We are excited to build upon the amazing GoBus family!

Positions are available to serve in Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. ETCOG is seeking applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of professional driving and customer service experience. A CDL is preferred, but not required.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early for a scheduled interview on Thursday, April 27. Apply early at www.etcog.org/employment .

GoBus Announces Approval to Construct New In-House Maintenance Facility

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 21:02:20 GMT

GoBus is proud to announce the ETCOG Executive Committee’s approval of an in-house maintenance facility that allows staff to provide thorough and consistent preventative measures on organizational vehicles across the 14-county region.

“After several years of research and planning, GoBus is excited to be in the preliminary stages of construction and design,” said Transportation Director Vince Huerta.

In 2021, the GoBus team conducted a feasibility study, which determined an in-house facility would offer a more aggressive maintenance program, in-depth inspections, and cost-savings.

“Having in-house maintenance will reduce turnaround time for vehicle repairs allowing us to get them back on the road, assisting customers sooner and safer, said Huerta. “Ultimately, this opportunity allows us to continue our mission of providing safe, reliable, and friendly transportation services.”

The $2.5M projected budget will allow for staff relocation, two vehicle bays, training rooms, and additional parking for regional vehicles. Next steps include a detailed floor plan and schedule for final completion in FY23.

EPA Awards Kilgore ISD Clean School Bus Funding

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 15:03:01 GMT

The Biden-Harris Administration announced the Fiscal Year 2022 recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, awarding $50,980,000 from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Texas school districts. The grants will help 13 school districts purchase 144 clean school buses that will accelerate the transition to zero emissions vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities.

Kilgore ISD was among the 13 school districts awarded funds for the clean school bus program. The district was awarded $1.5M to purchase new buses and eligible infrastructure.

“President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is accelerating our nation’s transition to electric and low-emission school buses while ensuring a brighter, healthier future for our children,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “As many as 25 million children rely on the bus to get to school each day. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are making an unprecedented investment in our children’s health, especially those in communities overburdened by air pollution. This is just the beginning of our work to build a healthier future, reduce climate pollution, and ensure the clean, breathable air that all our children deserve.”

In May, EPA announced the availability of $500 million for its Clean School Bus Program. Given overwhelming demand from school districts across the country, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded to $965 million. The rebate application period closed in August with an outstanding response from school districts seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses across the country.

At this time, the agency has selected 389 applications totaling $913 million to support the purchase of 2,463 buses, 95% of which will be electric. EPA will distribute awards to school districts in all 50 states, Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. School districts identified as priority areas serving low-income, rural, and, or Tribal students make up 99% of the projects that were selected. More applications are under review, and the agency plans to select more to reach the full $965 million in the coming weeks.

These awards are the first $1 billion of a five-year, $5 billion program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. EPA is also designing the next rounds of program funding to launch in the coming months, which will include an ambitious grant competition. Through future rounds of funding, EPA will make available another $1 billion for clean school buses in Fiscal Year 2023. EPA encourages school districts not selected in the first round of rebates – and those that did not apply this funding cycle – to participate in future rounds.

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The program will also save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing older, heavily polluting buses with brand new clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

GoBus Drivers Recognized for Service During COVID-19

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 17:36:50 GMT

At the Rural Public and Intercity Bus Transportation Conference, transit workers were recognized for providing essential transportation during the COVID-19 pandemic with Frontline Hero Awards.

As many businesses were forced to close their doors in 2020, transportation was listed as an essential service to stay open and stay operating. GoBus Operators were responsible for transporting thousands of East Texans to the grocery store, doctor appointments, vaccine set-ups, and other necessary locations.

GoBus staff members were provided their "Rural Mobility Champion: Frontline Hero" awards and buttons at a recent driver training session.

"I'm really proud of our staff and the quick changes they've been able to adjust and make in such a short period of time," Vince Huerta, GoBus Director.

Safety is one of the three pillars GoBus strives to advocate and promote. During early 2020, several safety practices were implemented and improved upon to protect passengers and drivers. From masks and barriers to extra sanitation practices and distancing measures, transit workers went the extra mile to provide passengers a safe and healthy environment.

Rural Mobility Award Nomination Excerpt

ETCOG to Host Hiring Event for GoBus Operator Positions October 27th

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 17:24:47 GMT

Thursday, October 27, 2022 | Hilton Garden Inn - Longview

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host a Hiring Event for full-time, part-time, and PRN GoBus Operator positions on Thursday, October 27. GoBus is ETCOG's rural, demand response public transit system with about 30 vehicles on the road making approximately 500 trips a day, five days a week, throughout 14 counties in East Texas. The Hiring Event will be held from 9 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Longview, located at 905 E Hawkins Pkwy. Interested applicants may apply ahead online at www.etcog.org/employment .

"Our GoBus program is growing, so we are excited to offer this event for interested candidates throughout the region. Applicants will meet our leadership team, have an opportunity to talk with a GoBus Lead Driver, and take a tour of one of our buses," said ETCOG Assistant Executive Director Brandy Brannon.

"GoBus staff are dedicated and caring individuals representing the core of East Texans, and in seeking new team members, we hope to present a culture that prioritizes the community and those that work to aid its citizens," said ETCOG's Director of Transportation Vince Huerta. "We welcome new individuals with support through an open door policy, competitive pay, and plenty of growth opportunities. We are excited to build upon the amazing GoBus family!"

Positions are available to serve in Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. ETCOG is seeking applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of professional driving and customer service experience.

ETCOG Director Vince Huerta Elected President of the Texas Transit Association Board

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 18:38:47 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments is pleased to announce its Director of Transportation, Vince Huerta, has been elected the Board President of the Texas Transit Association (TTA).

"I am elated to serve as the new President of TTA for my first term," said Huerta. "I am eager to begin working with our rural, small urban, and large urban transit providers to create new and updated benefits for our membership, potential recruits, and constituents. As a seasoned transit manager and longtime member of TTA, I believe I can provide a fresh perspective on how our organization engages with its members. Together we will be able to expand our network and provide the representation Texas Transit deserves."

TTA’s purpose is to educate the people of Texas about issues affecting the public transit industry within the state. Additionally, TTA actively supports public transportation in the State of Texas and works with members of the state legislature in the pursuit of additional resources to support public transportation.

Huerta has been a part of the public transportation industry for over 20 years and has extensive urban, small urban, and rural Texas transit experience. He actively serves on the TTA Board of Directors and Executive Committee, as well as the Southwest Transit Association Board of Directors. Huerta received the TTA's Outstanding Public Transportation Manager of the Year in 2020.

GoBus Launches Partnership with First Monday Trade Days in Canton

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 14:01:23 GMT

GoBus is proud to announce a new partnership with First Monday Trade Days in Canton to provide free shuttle service for attendees, called the Canton Cruiser.

"It has been a goal for many years to partner with the City of Canton to provide public transportation services for First Monday Trade Days. We are excited to expand our services to include special events in cities within our region. Everyone knows what First Monday Trade Days in Canton is and it is a huge honor for GoBus to be associated with such a well-known event. We look forward to expanding our services even more and a long-lasting partnership with the City of Canton," said Preston Garcia, GoBus Transportation and Compliance Manager.

First Monday Trade Days is the world's largest flea market held once a month in Canton for shoppers to find items from antiques and custom items to clothes and furniture. With six acres of shopping, there are multiple starting points and parking lots to choose from. To help alleviate the distance of walking, GoBus offers free shuttle services from specific parking lots listed below. Shuttles run every 15-20 minutes on Fridays and Saturdays during First Monday weekends from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Locations:

West Gate

Off I-20 Exit 526 on FM 859 (Edgewood Drive)

ADA Parking

Flea Market Road

The Mountain

542 E. Dallas St.

Canton Parking

501 E Dallas St.

Texas Veterans Commission Awards GoBus a $100K Grant for Veteran Transport

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 20:01:56 GMT

In September, the Texas Veterans Commission's (TVC) Fund for Veterans' Assistance (FVA) presented over $600,000 in grants to six organizations in East Texas for providing services to approximately 5,400 veterans. ETCOG is proud to be a grant recipient of $100,000 of those funds to provide GoBus transportation services and programs for veterans in our 14-county service area!

"It was an honor to accept this funding award from the Texas Veterans Commission and Commissioner Shaneyfelt," said Vince Huerta, GoBus Director. "We are dedicated to growing the program and look forward to assisting more veterans this year."

ETCOG has been a recipient of the TVC grant for two consecutive years. With the grant, our public transit system, GoBus, will fund trips to and from medical, dental, and mental health appointments; and trips for basic needs such as grocery stores, community meetings, voting, court appearances, and tax offices. These trips can be for veterans, veteran spouses and dependents, survivor spouses, and active military.

"I want to thank TVC for renewing this funding which allows us to continue our mission to support all East Texas veterans," said Huerta. "This funding has allowed GoBus to provide over 3,000 trips to veterans needing transportation services this year."

The grant is in partnership with over $31 Million in grants for veterans, Governor Abbott announced on September 2 . "The State of Texas continues working to improve the lives of our veterans and provide them and their families with the best available resources to thrive," said Governor Abbott. "I thank the Texas Veterans Commission for their hard work to ensure thousands of our veterans are served through these grants. These courageous heroes and their families deserve our utmost support and respect, and Texas will always honor their sacrifice and service to our nation in the pursuit of freedom."

Find out about all veteran transport services GoBus offers by visiting www.gobustransit.com/govet .

GoBus Wins Marketing Spotlight Awards from South West Transit Association

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 20:15:42 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments' rural transit system, GoBus , is pleased to be a recipient of the South West Transit Association's (SWTA) annual Spotlight Awards , which recognizes excellence in marketing and outreach efforts produced by transit providers across SWTA's eight-state region.

"The SWTA Spotlight Awards represent a great and long-standing tradition in the SWTA Nation in recognizing the outstanding work our members do in communicating their services, events, and innovations while reinforcing that transit matters everywhere, especially in our part of the country," said SWTA Executive Director Rich Sampson. "We were pleased to present these awards for 2022 and hear the winners share the details of their award-winning campaigns."

ETCOG received three awards for campaigns or materials produced in promoting its new GoBus mobile app, updating a 5-Year Regional Transportation Plan, and announcing the return of trip fares in the fall of 2021. Awards received include:

• Spotlight Campaign – Category 1 Systems

• Hit The Spot Award: Electronic – Category 1 Systems

• Hit The Spot Award: Event – Category 1 Systems

"This is a very exciting win, and the Communications team is delighted to be recognized in this way," said ETCOG's Communications Director, Lindsay Vanderbilt. "Staff has taken great measures to enhance the GoBus customer experience with new technologies and involve East Texans in regional transportation planning. We enjoy finding unique and creative ways to bring these messages to the public."

TxDOT Approves Nearly $150M For Statewide Transit

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 16:27:00 GMT

East Texas Council of Governments will receive $350,164

On July 12, the Texas Transportation Commission awarded more than $68 million in federal and state funds to transit providers across the state. Combined with an award granted in June, TxDOT is distributing more than $146 million in funding, a 65% increase compared to funds approved in the summer of 2021. This increase is partly due to additional federal funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

TxDOT launches pedestrian protection campaign

In Atlanta County, the fund includes $89,400 for the Arc-Tex County Council serving Bowie, Cass, Morris, and Titus counties. The East Texas Council of Governments will receive $350,164 serving Camp, Harrison, Marion, Panola, and Upshur counties.

“This funding is important to ensure everyone in Texas, especially those in rural areas, needs to travel safely and reliably,” said TxDOT Transportation Commissioner Alvin New. “Many people across the state rely on these services to meet their basic needs because they have no other choice. We are excited to fund these agencies as they continue to serve the people of Texas."

Transit companies can use these funds to cover maintenance costs, buy new buses, build new facilities, and expand their services to accommodate more people. Here are some concrete examples:

The Concho Valley Transit District in San Angelo will build a bus storage and internal maintenance facility.
The Rural Economic Assistance League (REAL), which serves nine counties in South Texas’ Coastal Bend region, will build a multimodal transit facility after doubling its service area in recent years.
Texoma Area Paratransit System, Inc. (TAPS), which serves six counties near the Oklahoma border, is moving administration and transportation functions from its leased premises to a new facility.
The Brazos Transit District, which serves seven counties in the Brazos Valley, will expand its service and add fuel vehicles to the site.

TxDOT says state and federal funds support rural and urban transit services in more than 90% of the state’s land area and serve more than a third of the state’s population. Statewide, the money will make transit safer and more reliable.

TxDOT Approves East Texas Regionally Coordinated Transportation Plan

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 20:18:07 GMT

The 5-year Regionally Coordinated Transportation Plan is officially underway after approval from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Discussion for the update of this plan began in 2021, and is the culmination of a process led by the East Texas Council of Government (ETCOG) and the EasTexConnects Committee .

This updated plan will serve as a roadmap for implementing service changes, improvements, and/or potential expansion over the five year timeframe. It will also serve as a basis for preparing grant applications for funding. While planning efforts were directed toward improving and increasing service to meet the needs of all residents, the updated plan provides an emphasis the mobility needs of the following population groups that often face transportation challenges:

Older adults
Persons with disabilities
Low income residents
Zero car households
Youths
Veterans
Non-English speaking residents (Title VI)

While the coordinated transportation planning process takes a broad assessment of transportation services, experience and research across the country in both urban and rural areas show that scheduled public transit is the best way to provide coordinated transportation services. Many people needing mobility options can use fixed-route and scheduled services, so often the best way to support the needs of human service agency clients, veterans, and other populations is through excellent public transportation. When public transit systems are able to meet the majority of needs through the existing fixed-route/scheduled service network, then other resources can be freed up to focus on those customers who need more specialized services – true coordination.

Facemasks Now Optional on GoBus

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 13:39:52 GMT

The Transportation Security Administratio n is withdrawing its security directive, SD1582/84-21 , which was issued on April 15, 2022, extending mask mandates until May 3.

Effective immediately, TSA will not enforce its mask-related security directives. In response, GoBus will no longer require any passenger to wear a facemask to board our vehicles for demand/response or flex route services.

While masks are no longer a requirement, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend masks to protect against the spread of the COVID virus, particularly in areas where social distancing is not possible.

For service hours of operation and trip information, please visit www.gobustransit.com or call 1-800-590-3371 .

GoBus Receives Outstanding Rural Transit System in Texas Award from the Texas Transit Association

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 20:06:35 GMT

Pictured: TTA Board President Jorge Cruz-Aedo, ETCOG Transit Operations Manager Katey Pilgram, ETCOG Transportation Director Vince Huerta, ETCOG Transportation Data Analyst Preston Garcia

ETCOG is pleased to announce its rural transportation system, GoBus, has received the Outstanding Rural Transit System Award from the Texas Transit Association (TTA). Staff was honored with the award last week in Austin at one of the largest transit conferences held in the nation, the 2022 Joint Annual Conference, Expo, and Roadeo hosted by the TTA and South West Transit Association.

Each year, this award is given to a rural public transportation system that has designed and implemented programs that demonstrate innovative concepts or effective problem-solving techniques and have successfully applied these in the public transportation industry. GoBus received the award for the first time in 2014.

“I am so proud of the GoBus Team!” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “Under the direction of our program director, Vince Huerta, GoBus has demonstrated their commitment to continuously improve the quality and availability of transit services throughout the East Texas Region. They have not only been able to increase ridership but also take on many different special projects to help fill transportation gaps. Some of these projects include creating seamless travel through multiple partnerships, offering free trips to veterans, and even providing routine transportation to health care staff to distribute vaccines during the height of COVID. Through these projects, GoBus has initiated the expansion of services to nights and weekends and brought in thousands of local matching dollars to their program. I am thrilled that TTA has recognized GoBus for their exceptional services with the award for Outstanding Rural Transit System.”

GoBus is available for all rural residents to access safe, reliable, and friendly public transportation. GoBus provides daily local service within Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood Counties and the non-urbanized areas of Gregg and Smith counties. GoBus provides trips from the rural areas into the urbanized areas of Longview or Tyler on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Trips can be booked by calling 800-590-3371 to speak with the dispatch office.

About Texas Transit Association
More than 700 transit industry leaders, professionals, and business partners gathered for the annual conference at the Austin Convention Center last week. TTA was organized in 1986, and its members are Texas metropolitan, small urban, and rural transit agencies and private and public entities from across the United States. TTA’s purpose is to educate the people of Texas about issues affecting the public transit industry within the state. https://txtransit.org/

ETCOG CEO/RTPO Board Chair, Judge Robert Johnston, Receives Distinguished Service Award from Texas Transit Association

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 19:16:59 GMT

ETCOG is pleased to announce its Chairman of the Chief Elected Officials / Rural Transportation Planning Organization Board, Anderson County Judge Robert Johnston, has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Texas Transit Association (TTA). Judge Johnston was honored with the award yesterday in Austin at one of the largest transit conferences held in the nation, the 2022 Joint Annual Conference, Expo, and Roadeo hosted by the TTA and South West Transit Association (SWTA) .

TTA’s Distinguished Service Award is given to a state or local elected official who has substantially assisted in the advancement of public transit in the state of Texas. Judge Johnston was selected for the award because of his outstanding work supporting transportation in East Texas.

“Judge Johnston is not only a County Judge but Chairman of the fourteen-county East Texas Rural Transportation Planning Organization, a member of the ETCOG Board of Directors, and Chairman of the ETCOG Chief Elected Board of Officials, and the President-Elect of the Texas Association of Regional Councils Board, among others. He has diligently worked with ETCOG since 2011 and has supported many positive improvements for public transportation during this time. His continuous support of GoBus and transit-related projects in East Texas has aided in the ability for the transportation of thousands of citizens in need. Judge Johnston is a well-respected member of the region due to his humble heart and commitment to public service. We appreciate his dedication to the entire East Texas Region and his commitment to providing excellence for our customers,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

“I am honored to receive this award from TTA and am grateful for the recognition that comes with it,” said Judge Johnston. “ The reason why I decided to run for public office in the first place was that I wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of the citizens I serve. In my view, that is what is most important! Thank you to TTA for conferring this award on me! I appreciate it.”

More than 700 transit industry leaders, professionals, and business partners have gathered for the annual conference at the Austin Convention Center this week. TTA was organized in 1986, and its members are Texas metropolitan, small urban, and rural transit agencies and private and public entities from across the United States. TTA’s purpose is to educate the people of Texas about issues affecting the public transit industry within the state.

Transportation Security Administration Extends Mask Mandate

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 17:15:55 GMT

Mask Mandate Extended to March 18, 2022

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a federal mask requirement for transit systems to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 based on President Joseph R. Biden’s Executive Order 13998 , issued January 21, 2021. The Transportation Security Administration soon followed with a security directive implementing the CDC order.

Science-based measures are critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Mask-wearing is one of several proven life-saving measures, including physical distancing, appropriate ventilation, vaccination and timely testing, that can reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Requiring masks will protect America’s transit workers and passengers and help control the transmission of COVID-19.

TSA has extended the face mask requirement for all transportation networks, including public transportation, through March 18, 2022. TSA’s initial face mask requirement went into effect on February 1, 2021, with an initial expiration date of May 11, 2021. It was first extended through September 13, 2021, and then to January 18, 2022.

While this announcement extends the date of enforcement, all other aspects of the requirement remain unchanged, including exemptions and civil penalties. TSA also issued a statement on the face mask extension.

ETCOG CEO-RTPO Board Member, Judge Leward LaFleur, Appointed to Executive Committee

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 20:10:30 GMT

ETCOG is pleased to announce the appointment of Marion County Judge Leward LaFleur to the Chief Elected Officials - Rural Transportation Planning Organization (CEO – RTPO) Board’s Executive Committee.

The CEO - RTPO Board consists of the county judges from each of the 14-counties served by ETCOG, the Mayors of Longview and Tyler, and the three Texas Department of Transportation District Engineers that serve the ETCOG region. The Board serves a dual function of shared oversight of the workforce programs with the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board and working directly with TXDOT to ensure that transportation priorities are developed and solutions implemented for the rural communities of the region.

“It is an honor to be selected by my esteemed colleagues to serve. This board is so very important for our region. Rural East Texas is well served by the members of the CEO - RPTO Board, and I look forward to the future of Rural East Texas,” said Marion County Judge Leward LaFleur.

Judge LaFleur joined the CEO – RTPO Board in 2018 and serves on its Executive Committee with Chairman Judge Robert Johnston of Anderson County, Vice-Chair Judge A.J. Mason of Camp County, Judge Chris Davis of Cherokee County, and Judge Joel Hale of Rusk County. The Board meets during the April, August, and December months to address the joint business agenda of the CEO – RTPO Board in a blended meeting format. The Executive Committee meets on behalf of the full board when needs arrive in between the aforementioned regularly scheduled meeting dates.

“Judge LaFleur has established himself as a leader who cares about Marion County and the entire 14-county region in a very short amount of time,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “We are fortunate to have him as a valued member of our regional team!”

Under the Workforce Investment Act, the CEO Board is responsible for the leadership and board appointments to the local workforce development board. The CEOs partner with the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board to build a premier workforce in the region and are the primary source of local workforce policy.

ETCOG formed its RPO in 2009 to provide a forum for local elected officials to establish rural transportation project priorities and planning and provide direct input to TXDOT concerning those priorities for areas not included in a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Through the RPO, all fourteen of our counties and those cities that are not served by the Longview or Tyler MPOs can deliver a unified message to state and federal decision-makers concerning transportation needs and priorities.

The full membership of the CEO – RTPO Board can be viewed at www.etcog.org/about#GoverningBoards .

What's New on GoBus? Free WiFi for Riders!

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 19:19:15 GMT

To improve our rider's experience with GoBus while riding around East Texas, we have installed Wi-Fi capabilities on our vehicles.

Ask your driver for more info next time you step onto a GoBus!

Book your trip today at → www.gobustransit.com/book-a-trip

TxDOT Launches Public Survey for the I-20 Texas Corridor Study

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:39:17 GMT

As part of the I-20 Texas Corridor Study, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is requesting public input through an online survey. The survey asks respondents to weigh in on their transportation priorities for I-20, their points of interest along the corridor, and issues or opportunities that should be addressed.

TxDOT's Freight, Trade, and Connectivity Section of the Transportation Planning and Programming Division is conducting the I-20 Texas Corridor Study to identify multimodal needs and prioritize improvements that facilitate the movement of people and goods from east to west Texas. The study area spans along I-20 from the I-10 junction in Reeves County to the Texas/Louisiana state line, a distance of 635 miles. Findings and recommendations from the study will be used to help guide the future of the I-20 Corridor.

“This is the first time TxDOT has taken a comprehensive look at the whole I-20 corridor. I-20 is one of the primary east-west travel and trade routes in Texas,” Caroline Mays, Director of Freight, Trade and Connectivity Section at TxDOT. “As part of the study process, TxDOT wants input from people who live and work near I-20. This survey is an opportunity for the public to give us their input about what should be addressed in the study recommendations.”

The survey will be open from Oct. 25 – Dec. 10, 2021 . The public can get more information about the study and access the survey by going to https://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/projects/studies/statewide/i20- corridor-study.html and clicking the link on the project page.

GoBus Receives Grant To Fund Veteran Transport

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 14:33:26 GMT

These trips can be for veterans, veteran spouses and dependents, survivor spouses, and active military.

In September, the Texas Veterans Commission's (TVC) Fund for Veterans' Assistance (FVA) presented over $1 million in grants to six organizations in East Texas for providing services to approximately 5,400 veterans. ETCOG is proud to be a grant recipient of $150,000 of those funds to provide transportation services and programs for veterans in our 14-county service area!

With this grant, our public transit system, GoBus, will fund trips to and from medical, dental, mental health appointments; and trips for basic needs such as grocery stores, 24-hour care, community meetings, voting, court appearance, and tax offices. These trips can be for veterans, veteran spouses and dependents, survivor spouses, and active military.

"We are really excited to launch this new project. It has allowed us to fill a gap that has existed in East Texas for quite a while," said GoBus Director Vince Huerta. "In years past, we have had to take on funding these trips through other grants, and we were seeing about 3,000 veteran trips. Clearly, the need is here. We are thrilled to have this new opportunity available for veterans, which will help us grow veteran transport services in East Texas."

Find out about all veteran transport services at GoBus by visiting https://www.gobustransit.com/govet .

ETCOG Receives $45K in Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 14:26:39 GMT

GoBus Partners to Provide Transport of Vaccination Supplies and Health Care Workers

We are pleased to announce that our Public Safety division successfully submitted a grant application through the Governor's Office for Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding. The approved grant will reimburse ETCOG $45,021.48 for COVID-19 expenses incurred through a vaccination clinic support partnership.

In May 2021, ETCOG's public transit system, GoBus, began transporting vaccination supplies and staff members to five counties in our region. GoBus partnered with the Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) to transport COVID-19 vaccines and trained nursing staff to rural areas of East Texas to reach communities affected by the coronavirus. The staff offered transport six days each week to Van Zandt, Anderson, Henderson, Rains, and Wood counties from the NET Health headquarters in Tyler and returned staff each evening. By doing this, NET Health nursing staff provided vital information, protective gear, and vaccinations to the vulnerable populations of these rural communities.

ETCOG is proud to partner with NET Health and aid in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in East Texas.

We're Seeking Input on Our Regionally Coordinated Transportation Plan

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:04:37 GMT

Need a ride? We've got you covered! ETCOG's rural transportation service, GoBus, provides thousands of trips a month to jobs, medical appointments, social services, shopping, or wherever customers wish to go. But more than this direct service, we work with EasTexConnects to coordinate transportation services across the region.

What is EasTexConnects ? Simply put, it is a group of individuals working to improve transportation choices in East Texas. The EasTexConnects committee includes:

Elected officials (or appointees)
Citizens
Representative of social service agencies
Local transportation providers
Businesses

Staff work with the EasTexConnects committee and an outside vendor to develop and maintain a five-year Regionally Coordinated Transportation Plan for the East Texas area. The 2021 update of this plan is currently underway, and we need public feedback!

Have your say on what is happening with our regional transportation by visiting ETCOG's new public engagement website, Let's Talk ETCOG. Visit letstalketcog.org/regional-transportation to review our plan and submit your ideas.

GoBus Launches New Mobile App Enabling Customers to Manage Their Trips and Track the Bus in Real-Time

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 15:59:05 GMT

GoBus announces its new app is live and free to download in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store . Searchable under the name GoBus Transit, the app helps existing GoBus customers with trip planning, real-time bus tracking, and fare payments.

One of the central focuses of the GoBus app for both the agency and riders is flexibility. By using the app, customers will benefit from more accurate wait times and save time planning trips at their convenience.

"GoBus Transit is excited to launch a mobile app for iPhone and Android users, which brings added convenience to the citizens of East Texas. Citizens requested a mobile app, and we delivered! This digital tool is a game-changer for our riders because it takes all the guesswork out of planning a transit trip. In addition to real-time tracking, the app will allow passengers to pay for their fares. GoBus Transit is dedicated to safe, reliable, and friendly transit options while leveraging technology to bring innovative solutions to the citizens of East Texas," said ETCOG Transportation Director Vince Huerta.

For first-time app users, customers need to call GoBus dispatch at 800-590-3371 to get their account set up. The app is available for download at www.gobustransit.com/gobus-mobile-app . Watch the video above to learn how to use the app when booking a trip.

GoBus has about 30 vehicles on the road making between 500 and 800 trips a day, Monday - Friday, in the 10,000 square mile ETCOG region. GoBus provides demand/response service, taking customers where they need to go, such as work, school, grocery store, or medical trips. Fares are currently suspended but return on September 1 and are $2 for each one-way trip and $1 for each additional stop.

GoBus Wins Marketing Spotlight Award from South West Transit Association

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 20:54:13 GMT

Hit the Spot - Electronic Category Award for GoBus Promotional Video

The East Texas Council of Governments' rural transit district, GoBus, is pleased to be a first-time recipient of the South West Transit Association's (SWTA) annual Spotlight Awards, which recognizes excellence in marketing and outreach efforts produced by transit providers across SWTA's eight-state region.

ETCOG was notified to have won the Hit the Spot - Electronic Category Award for a video produced by its Communications team to showcase the changes GoBus underwent from 2018-2020 to improve service and safety procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I am thrilled that the work of our team is being recognized with this award," said ETCOG's Director of Communications, Lindsay Vanderbilt. "The GoBus staff have worked diligently to improve the rider experience, reduce costs, and they have taken every measure to ensure customer safety. It is a pleasure to help share the message of our team working so hard to help others."

Staff joined other award recipients virtually to share details of their award-winning campaigns and projects at the SWTA's 2021 Summer University Conference held July 20, 2021, in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

GoBus Announces Trip Fares Return September 1

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:59:17 GMT

GoBus announces the return of trip fares beginning on Wednesday, September 1. Fares have been waived for the last 18 months to reduce interaction between drivers and riders as a safety measure throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

GoBus will re-institute its fee structure of $2 for a one-way trip and $1 for each additional trip. If you are an active military member or veteran, GoBus has you covered! We also offer transportation to the Overton Brooks VA Hospital in Shreveport through our GoVet program . This program is free for veterans and active military and runs on Tuesdays.

Sponsored trips for seniors going to a medical appointment or a senior center will continue through a partnership with the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas .

Customers will be able to pre-pay for fares with their driver by purchasing a GoPass, and we also accept payments in cash, credit, or debit.

GoBus provides daily local public transportation within the East Texas region and offers trips from the rural areas into the urbanized areas of Longview or Tyler on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Book your trip by calling 1-800-590-3371 or request a trip online .

ETCOG to Host Hiring Event for GoBus Operator Positions May 21st

Tue, 18 May 2021 20:29:33 GMT

Open Call for On-Site Interviews in Tyler and Kilgore

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host a Hiring Event to conduct on-site interviews for full-time, part-time, and PRN GoBus Operator positions on Friday, May 21, 2021. GoBus is ETCOG's rural, demand response public transit system with about 30 vehicles on the road making approximately 500 trips a day, five days a week throughout 14 counties in East Texas.

The Hiring Event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Tyler, located at 5701 S. Broadway Avenue, and from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at ETCOG located at 3800 Stone Road in Kilgore.

ETCOG is seeking applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of professional driving and customer service experience. For quicker service at the Hiring Event, attendees are encouraged to apply online before the event at www.ETCOG.org/employment.

GoBus is Enhancing Services with New Technologies

Tue, 04 May 2021 20:08:22 GMT

Phone App, Customer-Calling System, and Engagement Website Coming Soon

Keep your eye out. We have new tech rolling out to enhance our services! This month, GoBus will launch a new phone app to download in the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app will allow customers to:

Schedule and cancel trips
Receive reminders of trips
Track their GoBus in real-time

We are also in the testing phase with a new customer-calling system. The system will generate automated calls to customers the night before their trips and allows the customer to connect with our dispatch office or cancel their trip if necessary. These two additions are in efforts to reduce no-show trips and improve customer communication about their bus arrival times.

GoBus will also launch a public engagement software to host public meetings in the coming months, provide a space for public forums and commentary, and customer surveys in one location. This site will give a barrier-free opportunity to participate in our five-year plan and other ETCOG engagement projects.

Stay tuned for product launch dates!

TxDot Calls for Safer Driving as Work Zone Traffic Deaths Rise During Pandemic

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 20:31:43 GMT

Even with less traffic during the pandemic, Texas work zone fatalities increased 9% in 2020 compared to 2019. That’s why TxDOT is calling on drivers to make safety their number one priority at all times and especially when passing through active construction and maintenance work zones on the roadway.

TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign is marking National Work Zone Awareness Week , April 26–30, with safety tips to reduce work zone fatalities. Last year, there were more than 22,000 traffic crashes in Texas work zones with 186 people killed, including four road workers.

“We know driving through work zones can be challenging,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “There can be extra congestion, slow-moving heavy equipment, temporary barriers, and vehicles that make sudden stops. We can’t stress enough how important it is to give driving your full attention and slow down— for your own safety and that of the people who work alongside the road.”

Drivers and their passengers account for the majority of those who have died in work zone crashes. In 2020, 147 motorists and vehicle passengers were killed in Texas work zones, along with 35 pedestrians and bicyclists and four road workers. The Texas Mutual Insurance Company, which helps employers prevent workplace incidents and their consequences, is partnering with TxDOT to promote safe driving. The “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign outlines five key steps drivers can take to safely navigate a work zone:

Slow down. Follow the posted speed limit and drive to conditions. Unsafe speed is one of the main causes of crashes in work zones.
Pay attention. Avoid distractions, keep your mind on the road and put your phone away.
Watch out for road crews. The only protective gear they wear is a vest, a hardhat and safety boots.
Remember, they want to get home safe, too.
Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to stop in a hurry if you need to. Rear-end collisions are the most
common kind of work zone crashes.
Allow extra time. Road construction can slow things down. Count on it, and plan for it.

Traffic fines double in work zones when workers are present and can cost up to $2,000. Failure to heed the Move Over/Slow Down law can also result in a $2,000 fine. State law requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching a TxDOT vehicle, emergency vehicle, law enforcement, tow truck or utility vehicle stopped with flashing lights activated on the roadside.

“Be Safe. Drive Smart.” is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX , a broader social media and word-of mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel such as wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving and never driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Nov. 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. #EndTheStreakTX asks all

Texans to commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths.

NET RMA Awarding Scholarships to High School Seniors

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 18:35:20 GMT

The North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) is an independent government agency created to accelerate the development of transportation projects in North East Texas. Our mission is to implement transportation solutions that will enhance the quality of life and the economic environment in our area.

In an effort to promote safe driving practices to area high school students and the Tyler community, NET RMA is introducing the Safe Driving Scholarship to award six eligible students a $500 scholarship each. The winners are selected based on essays and academic and extracurricular achievements.

Scholarship Eligibility

To apply, students must:

Be a high school senior attending Tyler High School, Tyler Legacy High School or Whitehouse High School.
Plan to enroll full-time to a 2-year or 4-year college or university.

Submission Details

All applicants must submit the following to be considered for the scholarship. Please email the required components to Scholarship@netrma.org:

Your updated resume (attached in a PDF format).
Your most recent school transcript.
A short essay on safe driving (max. 500 words and attached in a PDF format).

You are welcome, but not limited, to using one of the safe driving prompt ideas below:

What are your opinions on current safe driving policies? What are some changes to current local, state and federal laws you would like to see implemented, and what would be the implications of these changes?
How have you/could you discourage and prevent distracted driving among your friends, family and community?
Share a personal story on how distracted driving has impacted your life.

Must include the following information in the body of your email:

Applicant’s name
Name of high school attending
Name of college/university you will be attending

Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, room and board or for other items required by your college or university. If you are selected to receive a scholarship, you will be provided with instructions and a disbursement form to claim your scholarship.

Deadline

The deadline for all applications is Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 3:00 pm CDT.

Selection Process

Scholarship opens for application submission on April 15, 2021.
Scholarship application closes on May 6, 2021.
Applications will be reviewed by NET RMA Scholarship Committee.
Winners are selected and announced May 14, 2021.
Award ceremony TBD.

GoBus Seeking Input From Riders on Service Satisfaction

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 14:00:59 GMT

GoBus management is seeking input from riders on the quality of services offered throughout the 14-county region. GoBus strives to provide a safe, reliable, and friendly service that is available to everyone in East Texas.

"Periodically GoBus develops a customer satisfaction survey to determine how well our service is performing from the customer's perspective. It is important that we receive feedback from our passengers so we know where we can make improvements to the services we provide. Our top priority is to provide safe, reliable and friendly service to the citizens of East Texas. Please take a few minutes to let us know how we are doing!" said Vince Huerta, Director of Transportation.

If you have ridden with GoBus, please complete the survey by clicking on the link below.

GoBus Returning to Full Service on November 15

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 19:40:23 GMT

GoBus announces a return to full service starting November 15 after seven months of limitations. Beginning March 26, GoBus began restricting rides to essential trips only, including grocery store visits, doctor’s appointments, and employment. Starting in October, GoBus will transition into full service and begin offering non-essential rides throughout our 14-county region.

To help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, staff will continue to monitor the pandemic and follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and local officials. Drivers are required to wear personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves and will continue cleaning and disinfecting vehicles throughout the day.

The following is a guide set for GoBus drivers.

Extra Hand Washing - GoBus Management has required drivers to wash hands as frequently as possible and utilize hand sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available.
Wearing Gloves - GoBus Vehicle Operators have been encouraged to wear gloves when necessary.
Disinfecting Vehicles Twice A Day - Vehicles are sprayed with an EPA certified disinfectant twice daily (mid-day and end-of-day), paying close attention to handrails, armrests and seat backs.
Limiting Trips to Essential Trips Only
Suspending Fares - GoBus will not collect fares from passengers at this time. This will limit interactions between our drivers and passengers.

TxDOT Announces New District Engineer in Tyler

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 18:16:03 GMT

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has chosen Vernon Webb, P.E., as the new Tyler District Engineer, effective Sept. 1, 2020. Webb, a Jacksonville native, takes the helm of the eight-county Tyler District and its 316 employees.

As District Engineer, Webb oversees the planning, design, construction, operations and maintenance of the state transportation system in Anderson, Cherokee, Gregg, Henderson, Rusk, Smith, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. He is very knowledgeable of the district having spent his entire TxDOT career here and has served as its second in command since 2016 as Deputy District Engineer.

“I am extremely honored to be selected for this position,” Webb said. “It’s very humbling to follow the previous leaders of the Tyler District, many of whom I have worked with and respected throughout my career. I look forward to continuing to work with our transportation partners and elected officials to provide much needed transportation improvements for East Texas.”

Webb got his start with TxDOT as a teenager working summers in the Henderson and Jacksonville maintenance offices while attending college. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 1995 with a B.S. in civil engineering, he got his first full-time position as an engineering assistant in the Palestine Area Office. He continued to advance through the Tyler District with promotions to transportation engineer, Tyler Assistant Area Engineer, Athens Area Engineer, Tyler Area Engineer, and Director of Transportation, Planning and Development. He also spent four years in the private sector working for a consulting firm where he developed plans for several TxDOT projects.

As Deputy District Engineer, Webb worked with area Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO’s) and Rural Planning Organizations (RPO’s) to deliver projects for east Texas. As Director of TP&D, he helped deliver approximately $1 billion in transportation improvements in the Tyler area. He worked closely with the Tyler and Longview MPO’s, district staff, TxDOT administration and elected officials to find collaborative ways to fund needed projects. In his work as Area Engineer, he led the completion of the Athens Loop as well as the expansion of US 175 connecting rural east Texas to the DFW Metroplex.

Webb resides in Tyler with his wife Kenya, daughter Kaylee, and son Kyle, who recently went to work for the Atlanta District as an Engineering Assistant.

Webb replaces Glenn Green, P.E., who retired in August after more than 34 years of service to TxDOT.

Source: TxDOT

ETCOG Director Awarded Outstanding Public Transportation General Manager

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 14:12:09 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments is pleased to announce the Texas Transit Association awarded GoBus Director, Vince Huerta, with "Outstanding Public Transportation Manager" of the year at the 2020 convention in South Padre Island.

Huerta has been a part of the public transportation industry for over 20 years and has extensive urban, small urban, and rural Texas transit experience to include his active duty on the TTA Board of Directors and Executive Committee.

“Vince has done an outstanding job leading our transportation team since his arrival here at ETCOG. His dedication and commitment to excellence and uncompromising focus on results in all he does is evident every single day! I am glad to see TTA agrees with what we have known for quite some time: Vince is one of the very best Transportation Directors in the entire State of Texas and we are fortunate and blessed to have him here in East Texas,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

Huerta joined ETCOG in May of 2018 and has continued to find ways to grow and support East Texas transportation. Notable accomplishments during his tenure include a 40% increase in ridership since 2018, drastically increased safety protocols, brought in a customized fleet, and further built procedural and monetary efficiencies. With the help of staff, Huerta was even able to initiate fare reduction to $2 per trip and altogether eliminate fares for veterans and active military personnel .

“It is only because of how greatly my staff has represented me with their hard work and dedication that I am able to accept such an award. We have made amazing strides together for East Texas Transportation this year, and I could not be more proud to exemplify ETCOG and GoBus,” said Huerta.

GoBus is now providing service into Longview from Gladewater and White Oak!

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:09:48 GMT

Safe, Reliable, and Friendly Public Transportation

Need a ride to the grocery store or to a doctor's appointment? GoBus is now providing service into Longview from Gladewater and White Oak!

This service is free for seniors (60+) and persons with disabilities (any age) in the green shaded area, outside the city limits of Longview.

Trips are scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and subject to availability.

Book your trip in 3 easy steps:

Know where and when you want to travel. 24-hour advanced notice is required.
Know the addresses of your destinations when you call.
Call our office to schedule your trip.

All vehicles are ADA accessible and provide curb to curb service:

GoBus will pick you up at your residence and take you to the destination of your choice.
Call 800-590-3371 when you are ready for your return trip.

Printable Poster

GoBus Limits Trips to Essential Trips Only

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:18:30 GMT

GoBus began restricting trips to essential trips only on March 26th. Essential Trips are determined according to the guide below. ETCOG and GoBus would like to ensure our partners of the increased measures we have implemented to supplement the more common steps individuals can take to protect themselves from the virus. GoBus has adopted preventive practices from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Guide for Public Transportation Pandemic Planning and Response (NCHRP, 2013) and will continue to make any necessary changes recommended by the CDC.

All GoBus drivers are following the added precautions:

Extra Hand Washing - GoBus Management has required drivers to wash hands as frequently as possible and utilize hand sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available.
Wearing Gloves - GoBus Vehicle Operators have been encouraged to wear gloves when necessary.
Disinfecting Vehicles Twice A Day - Vehicles are sprayed with an EPA certified disinfectant twice daily (mid-day and end-of-day), paying close attention to handrails, armrests and seat backs.
Limiting Trips to Essential Trips Only
Suspending Fares - GoBus will not collect fares from passengers at this time. This will limit interactions between our drivers and passengers.

Essential Trip Guide

We have limited our trips to essential trips only at this time.

Essential trips are for individuals going to work or to visit locations based upon the guide below.

ESSENTIAL

HEALTHCARE

Pharmacy

Hospital

Dentist

Veterinarian

SOME RETAIL

Grocery Stores

Gas Stations

Online Retailers

Restaurants (carry out)

INFRASTRUCTURE

Government

Utilities

Media

Mail

PROFESSIONAL

Banks

Legal, Accounting, Insurance, etc

PROPERTY

Hardware Stores

Plumbers, Electricians, Service Providers, etc.

Laundromats

NON ESSENTIAL

ENTERTAINMENT

Theaters

Museums

Bowling Alleys

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Salons

Tattoo Parlors

Massage Studios

SOME RETAIL

Clothing Stores

Athletic Stores

Hobby Stores

LIFESTYLE

Gyms

Restaurants (dine in)

Bars

Postponement of Recently-Announced “Get On Board, East Texas” Region-Wide Transportation Event

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 13:34:26 GMT

“Get On Board, East Texas” Day, a recently-announced, region-wide public transportation event, sponsored by EasTexConnects regional transportation committee and the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), has been postponed from its originally-scheduled date of April 16, 2020.

The event was to include participation of counties, cities, transportation providers, social service agencies, transportation users, and other citizens in the 14-county region of Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood.

Christina Anderson, chairman of the EasTexConnects regional transportation committee, stated: “Like everyone else throughout our region, nation, and world, we’ve been going about the work of making the very important and necessary changes needed to effectively address the current Covid-19 pandemic. This includes, of course, social distancing, cancelling non-essential activities, postponing or cancelling public events, and other very important steps.”

The “Get On Board, East Texas” Day event is designed to raise awareness about the many benefits provided by public transportation and to reach the people who need this transportation in our East Texas region. The event was to be done in coordination with the American Public Transportation Association’s National “Get On Board” Day.

David Cleveland, Executive Director of ETCOG, shared: “With public health and safety, of course, being our highest priority, the postponed ‘Get On Board, East Texas’ event will be re-scheduled for a date to be announced sometime in the future.”

Ms. Anderson added: “In the meantime, we wish to express our deepest appreciation to everyone working on the front lines of the current health crisis in the field of healthcare, safety, and other essential services, as well as those in government and other leadership roles throughout our region, nation, and beyond. We also want to thank every citizen for the important role that each of us plays in taking the steps needed to successfully battle this Covid-19 outbreak together.”

The EasTexConnects committee is comprised of elected officials, transportation providers, representatives of social service agencies and transportation organizations, and users of transportation throughout the 14-county region.

Public Meetings Canceled and COVID-19 Precautions

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 19:45:11 GMT

GoBus began a public meeting circuit in March to discuss services available and pending service enhancements to increase customer satisfaction. Public meetings have been held in seven of our counties, but to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we are canceling the public meetings listed below through April 9th. We apologize for the inconvenience and will resume or reschedule when it is safe to do so.

March 20, 2020, at the Mineola Memorial Library in Mineola
March 20, 2020, at the Rains County Library in Emory
March 24, 2020, at the Lillie Russell Memorial Library in Lindale
March 26, 2020, at the Van Zandt County Sarah Norman Library in Canton
March 26, 2020, at the Athens Economic Development Corporation in Athens
April 9, 2020, at the Palestine Public Library in Palestine
April 9, 2020, at the Jacksonville Public Library in Jacksonville

ETCOG and GoBus would like to ensure our partners of the increased measures we have implemented to supplement the more common steps individuals can take to protect from the virus.

“We are monitoring the CDC and the North East Texas Public Health District for updates and recommendations and can confirm to you that our team is doing everything possible to maintain a clean, safe environment for our clients and staff,” said GoBus Assistant Director, Baylea Evans.

GoBus has adopted preventive practices from the American Public Transportation Authority (APTA) Guide for Public Transportation Pandemic Planning and Response (NCHRP, 2013) and will continue to make any necessary changes recommended by the CDC:

GoBus Management has required drivers to wash hands as frequently as possible and utilize hand sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available.
GoBus Vehicle Operators have been encouraged to wear gloves when necessary.
Vehicles are sprayed with an EPA certified disinfectant twice daily (mid-day and end-of-day), paying close attention to handrails, armrests and seat backs.

Public Meetings Schedule Updated

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 21:39:18 GMT

Public Meetings Announcement

GoBus invites members of the public to join us for public meetings to discuss services available and pending service enhancements to increase customer satisfaction. Public meetings are set to begin in March and will be held in each of the counties located in our 14-county service area. Meetings are currently set for the following dates and locations:

March 3, 2020, at the Gladewater Housing Authority located at 777 S. Tyler Street in Gladewater, beginning at 10 AM
March 3, 2020, at the Camp County Library located at 613 Quitman Street in Pittsburg, beginning at 2 PM
March 5, 2020, at the Upshur County Library located at 702 W. Tyler Street in Gilmer, beginning at 10 AM
March 10, 2020, at the Marshall Public Library located at 300 S. Alamo Blvd. in Marshall, beginning at 10 AM
March 10, 2020, at the Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau located at 305 E. Austin Street in Jefferson, TX, beginning at 2 PM
March 12, 2020, at the Rusk Rusk County Library located at 106 East Main Street in Henderson, beginning at 10 AM
March 12, 2020, at the Panola Sammy Brown Library located at 319 S. Market Street in Carthage, beginning at 2 PM

Update on March 16, 2020

The following public meetings have been canceled until further notice:

March 20, 2020, at the Mineola Memorial Library located at 301 N. Pacific Street in Mineola, beginning at 11 AM
March 20, 2020, at the Rains County Library located at 150 Doris Briggs Pkwy in Emory, beginning at 2 PM
March 24, 2020, at the Lillie Russell Memorial Library located at 200 East Hubbard Street in Lindale, beginning at 10:30 AM
March 26, 2020, at the Van Zandt County Sarah Norman Library, located at 317 First Monday Lane in Canton, beginning at 11:30 AM
March 26, 2020, at the Athens Economic Development Corporation located at 201 W. Corsicana St., Suite 3, in Athens, beginning at 2:30 PM
April 9, 2020, at the Palestine Public Library located at 2000 South Loop 256, Suite 42 in Palestine, beginning at 12 PM
April 9, 2020, at the Jacksonville Public Library located at 502 S. Jackson Street in Jacksonville, beginning at 2 PM

GoBus Service Expansion

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 19:43:31 GMT

Service Availability for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities in Longview Urbanized Areas

GoBus and Longview Transit have partnered to bring transit service back to the Longview Urbanized Area for Seniors (65+) and persons

with disabilities (any age)! Fare is covered by a grant. Service is now available in the green shaded area, outside the city limits of Longview. Trips are scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and up to two weeks in advance by calling 800-590-3371.

GoBus Quarterly Operations Meeting

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 21:30:47 GMT

Keeping the team up to date on safety, stats, and serving our customers

On January 25th, the GoBus transportation team held a quarterly bus operator meeting to discuss procedures and operations. They also discussed SmartDrive, a new safety technology program enabled on all buses. This program is designed to document and score any risky driving habits and communicate them back to GoBus headquarters. This encourages staff to maintain a safe driving score and meet safe driving expectations. The lower the score, the better the bus operator is doing! Operators can keep their scores down by maintaining safe driving habits and being aware of risks.

Here’s what else the team discussed:

Team Recognition

GoBus Operator Kay Dowell was recognized for 5 years of service!

GoBus Stats

Most miles driven, was accomplished by GoBus operator Delois Johnson with 62,625 miles. GoBus Operator Bobbie Drew has completed the most trips annually and driven 762 passengers in mobility devices.

Uniforms

Uniforms are coming! Operators will begin wearing uniforms September 1, 2020.

Trip Comparison

From September 2018 to December 2019 GoBus saw a 6,004-trip increase! The team hopes to see an even larger increase by December 2020.

#ENDTHESTREAKTX

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 20:17:35 GMT

A shared message from the Texas Department of Transportation

Julian Ekpanya will someday smile while reeling in his first fish. He will experience the joy of hitting his first Little League homerun, learn to ride a bike and eventually take a prideful walk across a graduation stage. But his father won’t be there for any of it.

Julian’s father, Endy, was a Pearland police officer responding to a call on a Sunday morning, when his patrol car was struck head-on by a wrong-way, drunk driver. He died on the way to the hospital. He was 31.

“Julian is five now, and he’s started asking me, ‘When is Daddy coming home? Where is Daddy?’,” said Lucy Lugo Ekpanya, Endy’s widow. “I tell him that Daddy is on a very important mission, he is protecting us, he is our hero and he lives in our hearts. He is in Heaven.”

November 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on roadways in Texas. That means for 19 years straight, at least one person has died every single day. Texas Transportation Commission and TxDOT officials held a press conference in Houston today, launching the annual #EndTheStreakTX campaign that asks all Texans to join the effort to end this deadly 19-year streak.

An average of 10 people die every day in crashes in the state, prompting Texas Transportation Commissioner Laura Ryan to issue a public challenge at today’s press conference. She urged the crowd to tell 10 people about #EndTheStreakTX, and then have each of those 10 tell another 10, causing a wave of commitment and a surge of support for ending the fatal trend.

“I want to challenge everyone here to tell 10 people right now about #EndtheStreakTX,” Ryan said. “Take out your phones and let them know that you need their help to #EndtheStreakTX. Text them this message or share it on social media and tag at least 10 people. Challenge them to share the message with 10 of their friends, and so on. Let’s not have a 20th anniversary next Nov.7th”

TxDOT is asking people to share personal stories of loved ones lost in car crashes on their social media pages using photo and video testimonials with the hashtag, #EndTheStreakTX. The agency also will post statistics for the public to repost on social media outlets to help share this important message.

“We all have the power to end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways,” Ryan said. “And while we are committed to invest in the best engineering practices to make our roads safe, we also need drivers and passengers to act more responsibly and help us end the streak of daily deaths on our roads to reach our goal of zero deaths by 2050.”

TxDOT will dedicate an additional $600 million for more safety improvements along Texas roadways over the next two years. The effort includes widening some roads and adding rumble strips that alert drivers if they are veering out of their lane or off the road. We will also add reinforced shoulders and select turn lanes, and deploy new technology that will increase safety on the entire system of roads.

In May, the Texas Transportation Commission approved a goal aiming to end all fatalities on Texas roads by 2050, with an interim goal to reduce them by half by 2035. Texans can play a major role in ending fatal crashes with a few simple driving habits: wear seatbelts, drive the speed limit, put away the phone and other distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“It’s heartbreaking to know that every day for the past 19 years someone has lost a spouse, child, friend or neighbor on our state’s roadways,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “Ending this daily death streak is a shared responsibility. While we are committed to continue making improvements to our highway system, we all must work toward ending preventable crashes caused by drivers including distracted driving, speeding and drunk driving. Let’s make it a priority to be safe, focused and responsible behind the wheel. Let’s end the streak.”

Since Nov. 7, 2000, fatalities resulting from vehicle crashes on Texas roadways have numbered almost 67,000. The leading causes of fatalities continue to be failure to stay in one lane, alcohol and speed. To decrease the chances of roadway crashes and fatalities, TxDOT reminds drivers to:

Buckle seatbelts – all passengers need to be buckled
Pay attention – put phones away and avoid distractions
Never drink and drive or do drugs and drive –get a sober ride home
Drive the speed limit – obey speed limits and drive slower when weather conditions wa

How are we doing? Here's our breakdown of trips by county so far this year.

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 20:38:47 GMT

We've been busy! Check out our ridership numbers for this year from September 2019, through December 2019.

GoBus Public Meeting Notice

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 15:54:35 GMT

GoBus is partnering with Longview Transit to provide additional transportation services for seniors over 65 years of age and persons with disabilities within the Longview Urbanized Area.

New Addition to the GoBus Fleet!

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 21:36:28 GMT

We've added a new Trolley to the GoBus fleet! The Trolley will be used for special community partnerships and charter services. Make your next charter bus trip fun, convenient, and economical with GoBus.

Travel in comfort and ease with our GoBus charter service! Customers can rent a charter bus for all events: Weddings, Conventions, Corporate events & more. Check out the rates, instructions and send an inquiry online!

Join us for a Hiring Event for GoBus Operators

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 20:42:53 GMT

Wednesday, November 20th | 9 AM - 12 PM

GoBus is growing! Join us for a Hiring Event for part-time and substitute drivers (PRN) to fill in as needed days and evenings, weekends and holidays and for special projects. Positions pay $13.50 - $15 per hour.

Our Hiring Event is in partnership with Workforce Solutions East Texas - Palestine located in the Palestine Mall on November 20th from 9 AM - 12 PM. Come visit with us!

Find out more and apply at www.etcog.org/employment

GoBus Hosts and Sponsors Transit Leadership Training

lindsay.vanderbilt@etcog.org (Lindsay Vanderbilt) — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 21:50:09 GMT

GoBus was proud to host and sponsor a Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) – Transit Supervisor Training last week. Representatives from transit agencies from across the state joined us for a two day workshop providing comprehensive training in leadership, working effectively within a team, communication skills, coaching skills, performance gap analysis, motivation, use of positive & progressive discipline, dealing with emotional employees and how to use feedback effectively. We appreciate everyone who traveled to take advantage of this excellent training opportunity to better serve our customers.

GoBus Announces Highest Regional Ridership Since 2014 and Receipt of New Grant Funding Award

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 16:08:22 GMT

ETCOG’s rural transportation system, GoBus, announces rapid growth of regional ridership. GoBus provided a total of 105,257 trips for Fiscal Year 2019 from September 1st through August 31st. This is the agency’s highest ridership since 2014 credited to a fare reduction in 2018 as well as new leadership’s emphasis on increasing trip coordination.

GoBus is a rural transportation service providing over 105,000 trips annually to our 14-county region in East Texas. GoBus strives to deliver safe, reliable, and friendly rural transportation services to the community through an easy reservation process and inexpensive fare. GoBus demand response transit service provides access to jobs, medical appointments, social services, shopping or any other destination requested.

GoBus leaders recently attended the Special Districts Summit hosted by AT&T and Government Technology in Houston, Texas, offering professional development providing tools, actionable plans and a professional network to help ensure the organization is “future ready.” At the summit, GoBus was awarded a Technology Innovation Award for recently implementing its new fare system with the use of Square credit card processing to provide a more dynamic and efficient way to collect fares from passengers. (Pictured: Melissa Cure, GoBus Business Development Manager)

New grant funding has also been awarded to GoBus for service expansion. The Edwin A. Blue and Janice Owen Miller Charitable Fund awarded $10,000 to expand service in Henderson County for seniors’ trips into Tyler. This county has seen a considerable amount of growth in trips and is in our top three counties achieving the highest ridership. An additional $5,000 was granted by an anonymous foundation to increase service for seniors and persons with disabilities in areas where GoBus is experiencing an increase in demand.

“We are doing our best to keep rural east Texas transportation services up to date with technology while providing all the options and services our passengers expect,” said Vince Huerta, ETCOG’s Director of Transportation. “We hope to have more opportunities in the future to continue altering GoBus services for the better. I am really proud of staff being open to new ideas and innovations and making them happen!”

GoBus provides daily local service within Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood Counties and the non-urbanized areas of Gregg and Smith Counties. Trips from the rural areas into the urbanized areas of Longview or Tyler are offered on Tuesdays & Thursdays. GoBus trips are booked by calling 800-590-3371 to speak with our dispatch office.

Rains County Pilot Project

lindsay.vanderbilt@etcog.org (Lindsay Vanderbilt) — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 12:28:16 GMT

As a pilot project, GoBus has expanded service in Rains County to travel into Greenville on Mondays, Sulphur Spring on Wednesdays, and Mineola on Fridays. Test the service by booking your trip! Call 800-590-3371 to schedule.

Morris County Partnership

lindsay.vanderbilt@etcog.org (Lindsay Vanderbilt) — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 13:16:32 GMT

Partnering with Ark-Tex Council of Governments

Service will begin on June 4th for a public transportation pilot project with Ark-Tex Council of Governments and ETCOG. The transit systems TRAX and GoBus will coordinate to begin service from Morris County, located in the Ark-Tex region served by TRAX, into the East Texas region served by GoBus for trips into Longview and Tyler. Interested users can test the service and benefit from free fares through August 31st.