NEW ULM — The City of New Ulm is seeking the public’s input on a proposed fixed route bus service.

In order to measure interest as well as to determine the route of the bus service, the city has created a short survey for area residents to take. Even those unlikely to use the bus are encouraged to fill out the survey online.

The survey can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/New_Ulm_transit and must be completed before May 10. The survey results will help determine if a fixed bus route is viable.

The original plan was to provide a paper copy of the survey, but the coronavirus outbreak has made distribution of a paper survey difficult. Anyone unable to access or complete the survey online may call 507.359.8233 and City staff will be able to assist in completing the survey.

The survey asks questions about preferred location and destination of the bus line as well as hours of operation.

City Manager Chris Dalton said the results of the survey could determine if the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) helps fund a portion of bus service. Without MNDOT funding the bus service is unlikely to come to New Ulm.

New Ulm is a regional destination for many area residents accessing the destinations like County and City facilities, local manufacturing facilities, New Ulm Medical Center and Martin Luther College. Public transportation provides a crucial link to these destinations for those who aren’t able or choose not to drive, allowing them to get to work, attend classes, buy groceries, or do any other number of essential trips.