SMART Transit announces Austin, Albert Lea shuttle changes, trip pay increase

(ABC 6 News) – SMART Transit announced that passengers in both Austin and Albert Lea will have opportunities to go to new stops in each city on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Feb. 28.

The new stops will include retail locations that were not previously offered. However, deviations to these locations for drop-off can be stated to the driver, but passengers must notify dispatch to arrange a deviation pick-up.

In Albert Lea, the bus will stop at the flagpole at the Northbridge Mall each time they’re in town with estimated arrival times at 9:45 a.m., 11:35 a.m., 2:45 p.m., and 4:35 p.m. A passenger can request to be dropped off at any business in the Northbridge Mall area.

In Austin, the bus will deviate to the shopping district as requested. The Austin shopping district can include any retail or business along the 18th Ave. NW corridor including Marshalls, Hy-Vee, Runnings, Hobby Lobby, Aldi, and more. Estimated arrival time at the shopping district will be at 8:45 a.m., 10:35 a.m., 1:45 p.m., and 3:35 p.m.

Trips to and from the VA Clinic and Health Reach will remain options as requested.

The price for shuttle trips will be increasing to $4.00 per trip. The old fare was $3.50. Children age 5 and under ride for free with a paid adult. Veterans ride free to and from the VA Clinic in Albert Lea.

Tickets may be purchased on the bus with the driver or at the dispatch office in Austin.

The dispatch office may be reached by calling 507-433-2379 or 855-762-7821.

View the SMART Transit bus schedule below.