The Delta Area Transit Authority celebrated its 30th anniversary with an open house Tuesday afternoon.
The agency delivers 500 rides every day to people throughout Delta County. DATA
“We wanted to open up the building to the families of the employees, and also to the public, so they could see what we do, and where, and why,” DATA Executive Director John Stapleton said. “That was kind of exciting. I think that 30 years is a great milestone in Delta County.”
There were tours given of the bus garage, dispatch center, and administrative offices at the open house.
“We wanted to thank our employees that have been here in this timeframe as well,” Stapleton said. “We had some long-term employees, including one who’s been here for all 30 years.”
DATA also has rides to and from Manistique through a partnership with the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
“The regional route that goes to Manistique goes as much as three times a day, Monday through Friday,” Stapleton said. “That’s some exciting news. That Manistique route is growing. We also, interesting enough, do some packages on there as well. If it wasn’t for the Sault Tribe in partnering with us, we wouldn’t be able to provide that.”
Stapleton is also the director for the Schoolcraft County Transit Authority and says the two services go hand and hand.
