On March 9, Chenango County officials held a Grand Opening for the return of public transportation. (Photo by Kelli Miller)

NORWICH — On March 9, under a bright and sunny sky, Chenango County Board Officials held a grand opening for the return of public transportation.

After a year of working through a new transit contract, county officials, local residents, and the Cathay Express Transportation management team gathered at the ribbon cutting event in Norwich.

The ceremony marked one of the most important events in Chenango County, bringing back mobility and community connection for all residents.

City of Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey said mobility is one of the areas greatest needs and the transit system is going to help with employment, rides to medical appointments and grocery stores, and so much more.

“Anytime you have a bus system that will take you all around the county, especially with the closure of Grand Union, it’s going to be a significant benefit to those without reliable transportation or who don’t own a car,” said Jeffrey.

“This is going to be a huge boost and we’re really excited to have transportation back,” he said.

“This is a major win for the City of Norwich and Chenango County,” Jeffrey added.

Chenango County Board of Supervisors Clerk Sheri Howe said the return of transit marks renewed commitment for accessibility and connections.

Howe noted the year long pause in transit service was educational as they listened to the needs of the community, evaluated the situation and worked diligently in building a new transit system that would bring strength and reliability to the county.