TARC route cuts leave elderly disabled woman struggling to get to doctor appointments

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Transit Authority of River City has finalized more cuts to its bus routes, forcing hundreds of Louisville residents to find new ways to get around.

One of those affected is 77-year-old Marian Williams, a disabled woman who has relied on Louisville’s buses her entire life. Williams, who remembers paying just seven cents to ride the bus when it was known as Louisville Transit, now faces a significant challenge.

TARC announced that starting January 26, it will discontinue three routes, including Route 63, which Williams uses to get to her many doctor appointments. Without this route, Williams will have to walk nearly a mile and a half to catch the various busses she needs to get to the doctors.

“It's cold,” Williams said, describing the difficult walk. “I get tired, but I just keep on moving, don’t give up.”

For Williams, who has suffered from three heart attacks, two strokes, and has cataracts in one eye, the journey is both physically exhausting and dangerous. Parts of the walk have no sidewalks, and cars rush by her as she walks.

She still worries about her safety, especially at night. “You never know who’s hiding behind those buildings,” Williams said.

Route 63 serves hundreds of riders each day, including those traveling from PRP and Shively to downtown Louisville. Each has their own story of how the cuts will impact their lives.

“There’s a lot of people like me that don’t have transportation and need to get around the city,” one rider said.

“I’m 60 myself, and I have medical issues,” another said.

TARC officials said these cuts will save $4 million annually, as the agency struggles with financial challenges. The cuts come after the agency announced it faces a projected $30 million deficit by 2027 if further changes are not made.

Williams continues to make the walk, but each step serves as a reminder of how she feels the system she’s relied on for decades is slowly leaving her behind. TARC plans additional route changes in 2025.