The Chenango County Public Transportation Survey takes 5-8 minutes to complete and allows residents to weigh in on future transportation planning across the county. Find the survey online at the Chenango County Planning Department’s Facebook Page or at the following link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/rnPkccx0ak or scan the QR code. Paper copies available at the office at 5 Court St, in Norwich. (Submitted photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY – For many Chenango County residents transportation barriers impact activities of daily life. As the county works towards bolstering its public transportation system, the Planning Department is asking residents to weigh in through a county-wide survey.

The Chenango County Public Transportation Survey asks residents to take 5 to 8 minutes of their day to share their experiences, needs, and priorities related to transportation across the county. Designed by the Chenango County Planning Department with assistance from the county's transportation consultant, the survey aims to understand how residents currently use the public transportation system, how well it's working, and where improvements may be needed. It also seeks to identify unmet needs and barriers that prevent people from accessing essential services.

“The survey is meant for everyone in Chenango County, not just for those who might want to use public transit,” said Shane Butler Director of Planning. “Community surveys and other feedback opportunities give residents a chance to help shape decisions that affect them,” he added.

The survey includes 25 questions that are a mix of multiple choice, rankings, and short answer responses. Residents are asked about topics like vehicle access, transportation challenges, and priorities. Several questions focus on how transportation barriers have affected daily life leading to things like missed medical appointments, difficulty getting groceries, or missed work. County officials are particularly interested in learning whether current routes and schedules are meeting residents’ needs, what barriers may prevent people from using public transportation, and what changes could make the system more convenient and accessible.

“The survey responses will be compiled and reviewed to identify common themes, trends, and transportation needs throughout Chenango County,” explained Planner Matt Gladstone. “The results will also help the county better understand the transportation needs of residents who currently use the system, as well as those who may not be using it but could benefit from improved service.”

To try and get as many responses as possible, the survey will remain open until December. It can be accessed through the Chenango County Planning Department’s Facebook page, as well as through the following link and QR code: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/rnPkccx0ak

Paper copies of the survey are also available at the County Planning Department office at 5 Court Street, Norwich, for those who wish to participate offline.

County officials say the feedback will play a key role in shaping future transportation planning. Survey results may help identify opportunities to adjust bus routes and schedules, improve connections between communities, expand accessibility, or explore new service options. The findings will also support long-term strategic decisions, including funding priorities, grant applications, and regional planning efforts by demonstrating documented community needs.

“Any changes would be evaluated based on the survey findings, available resources, and overall feasibility, with the goal of providing a transportation system that better serves the needs of Chenango County residents,” said Gladstone. “By gathering direct input from the community, the county can make more informed decisions about future investments, service improvements, and opportunities to work with neighboring counties and regional partners to strengthen transportation connections.” he added.

Surveys like this help inform future planning decisions across the county in a more balanced and data-driven way. Rather than relying on anecdotal information, the Planning Department can use the collected responses to identify real needs, gaps, and opportunities for improvement; ultimately helping shape a transportation system that better connects residents to employment, healthcare, shopping, education, and other essential services.

“This survey is one part of the county’s broader vision for developing a public transportation system that is accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of Chenango County residents,” Gladstone said.

Residents are encouraged to take a few minutes to complete the survey and help guide the future of transportation in Chenango County, whether they intend to use it or not. Every response helps build a clearer picture of how the system can better serve the community.