NEW ULM– The city’s new fixed-route bus service is expected to start operation before Labor Day.

The Transportation Advisory Committee met Thursday. Committee member Pat LaCourse said it was possible to start the route sometime in late August. A used bus has been secured from Trailblazer Transit.

In addition to securing the bus, the committee is working on finding technology for the bus interior. A camera system will need to be installed. Heartland Express has a used camera system available.

Committee member Nate Moldan said he is searching for someone to install the equipment. A video monitor is also needed to display a scrolling list of stops for riders.

The committee discussed options for identifying the bus. It was determined the bus would be named New Ulm City Route Bus for now.

LaCourse reminded the committee this first bus was only temporary and they should not spend a lot of funds on a vehicle that will be replaced in six months.

The committee also reviews quotes for consulting services for marketing the new bus service. The two services that submitted proposals were Vantage Point and Jill Brown.

No official decision was made for marketing. Based on the information provided, the committee could not determine which proposal best met the community needs.

The committee had questions about the marketing timeline for the two proposals. The bid approval was tabled until the two consulting groups could present on the proposals.

The new fixed-route bus service will run on a set schedule with stops at major destinations along a set route in New Ulm. The program was approved by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.