November 25, 2009 — The Cherokee Nation and Pelivan Transit have partnered in Cherokee, Mayes and Rogers Counties to provide public transportation, and are now announcing some big changes to make commutes even more affordable.
You do not have to be a Cherokee Nation citizen or a tribal employee to participate in the Pelivan transit program.
Round trips between Salina and Tahlequah and Pryor to Catoosa to Cherokee Nation offices via Pelivan have been reduced to just $1, while one way trips are now only 50 cents. As an added incentive, Pelivan has incorporated Fun Free Fridays, meaning everyone can ride at no cost on Fridays.
“I’m very proud that the Nation has been given the opportunity to work with another agency in providing yet another program that will benefit all who choose to utilize this service both Indian and non-Indian,” said Sherry Waters, Infrastructure Data Coordinator, Cherokee Nation Roads Program.
The partnership between Pelivan and Cherokee Nation began a few years back as a response to skyrocketing gas prices and other economic factors that made it harder for some tribal employees to afford their daily work commutes.
“I live in Pryor and work in Tahlequah; by using the Pelivan I can save close to $60 a week and I only get home 15 minutes later than I would if I drove my own vehicle,” said Jackie King, an engineer with the Cherokee Nation. “I would encourage everyone to ride at least once.”
Program sponsors also note that using the transit system saves wear and tear on personal vehicles, plus it leaves the stress of daily driving to someone else.
“This program will help all citizens not only with travel cost but will allow them to have a stress free ride to and from work allowing the rider to be better prepared for work or to wind down after a long day of working,” said Waters.
For more information about the transit program, including routes and times, call the Pelivan Dispatch at (800) 282-2014 or the Pelivan main office at (800) 482-4594.
