Way to Go takes Branson are employees to work

The city of Branson's engineering department is working with the Stone County Transportation Assessment Coalition to provide low cost, reliable transportation for residents to travel to and from their jobs and other essential services.

Called "Way to Go," the three-month pilot program started in early November, according to a city of Branson news release. It serves a 25-mile route along seven stops from Galena to Reeds Spring to Branson West and Silver Dollar City.

Two 16-passenger OATS buses are dedicated to the route that operates seven days a week, 12 hours a day. The cost is $1 per ride.

If the pilot program is successful, the route could expand with additional stops in Kimberling City, Lampe and Blue Eye. Branson's engineering department created maps and scheduled the bus stops along the routes.

In other transportation news, construction has begun on the extension of Branson Hills Parkway. The parkway is being extended to connect with Missouri Highway 248 and will provide access to the proposed 42-acre Branson Sports and Recreation Complex in Branson Hills.