SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC NEWS)–The New York State Fair is only days away, but fairgoers who hope to get a ride on the centro bus, may have to change their plans.
More than 50% of park-n-ride stops will not be available this year.
Centro buses have provided park-n-ride stops to help people attend the New York State Fair, since the 1970s.
Steven Koegel, the centro’s vice president of communication said this year a staff shortage is putting an end to the tradition.
“Unfortunately we are now short bus operators. We have about 30 fewer operators than we had in 2019. We’re very sorry for those individuals who rely on our services from Oswego County, Cayuga county, and Camillus and Shoppingtown,” said Koegel.
Park-N-Ride buses for the fair will only be available at Destiny mall, Long Branch park, and the centro’s hub in downtown syracuse.
“We chose those locations, particularly Destiny and Long Branch because they’re closest to the state fair. So being close to the state fair means a bus can make more trips during the course of the day,” said Koegel.
Syracuse resident Courtney Shippey, who usually takes the bus to the state fair from Destiny mall, said he feels for those who may no longer have a ride.
“I definitely understand because of the fact that it’s been a turbulent time with the whole pandemic and everything, but it’s also disappointing because I know that there are a lot of people that really want to go to the fair and it’s going to be that much harder for them,” he said.
All residents that plan to take the centro will have to wear masks. For those without, one will be provided for you at the bus stop.
