MEMPHIS, Tenn. — On Sunday, Aug. 18, the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) announced that they are suspending their trolley service, effective immediately.
MATA confirmed that they are conducting a thorough investigation into a recent brake issue with the trolley service. This issue resulted in the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) recommending costly updates.
According to a media advisory, MATA leaders are prioritizing necessary rider service options as they finalize their budget and have ultimately decided to stop all trolley service until further notice.
Alternatively, riders are encouraged to use the Groove on Demand service, which provides coverage throughout the Downtown area.
“The balance is very delicate,” said Bacarra Mauldin, MATA interim CEO. “While we want a system of choice and transportation options, for now, we must focus on the needs of riders who rely on public transportation to get to work, doctor appointments, school and other critical destinations.”
In addition to pausing trolley services, MATA is also streamlining its staffing and vendor costs.
MATA says every affected employee will be notified in the coming weeks and will receive support securing alternate employment. In addition, vendor contracts have been discontinued and or dramatically scaled back.
"We are not alone. Transit agencies nationwide are facing difficult times that call for difficult decisions," said Mauldin. "We must act accordingly to ensure MATA's financial stability as we seek future solutions to rebuild our city's transit system."
According to MATA, community conversations will continue in hopes of helping leaders determine how the 2024-2025 budget will affect fixed routes and on-demand service.
For a full listing of community meetings times and dates visit here.
MATA initially released the following statement on social media:
"Safety is always top priority for our passengers. As we continue a thorough investigation on a recent brake issue and in alignment with a request from TDOT, effective immediately, we will be suspending our trolley service and will remain offline until further notice."