Changes are on the horizon for Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) riders at The Waterfront in Homestead, as PRT confirmed the removal of two popular bus stops inside the shopping plaza beginning next month. In a move that has left regular transit users concerned about accessibility and safety, the bus stops near Giant Eagle and Target will no longer be available. According to WPXI, approximately 400 people use these stops daily, signaling a significant impact on the community.
The property owners, M&J Wilkow Ltd., requested that the bus stops be removed, a decision PRT disagrees with but has to comply with due to property rights. The Waterfront’s General Manager, Carey Kann, issued a statement explaining that the decision was made to maintain a "family-friendly atmosphere" and a positive experience for tenants and visitors, as WPXI reported.
Not all passengers are convinced, however. "I hope this hits his ear – and softens his heart," Cassandra Johnson, a regular rider, said in an interview with CBS News, addressing the property owner. The elimination of the stops also raises concerns regarding the expense for those who rely on PRT, as Sandra Williams noted, "I'm going to be caught paying for rides, which I really can't afford." PRT has mentioned its commitment, along with The Waterfront and Homestead, to explore alternative routes closer to the storefronts, but concrete plans have yet to be announced.
