The new Palm Tran extension was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches on January 5, 2018. Launched two days later, the enhancements mean route 4 is now extended six miles via Haverhill Road in West Palm Beach to better serve the Ballpark of Palm Beaches and VA Medical Center. The extension means improved on-time performance, 20 additional bus stops and added service on Sundays. The new service is launching in time for Spring Training for the Washington Nationals and World Series Champions the Houston Astros. In attendance for the ceremony were: Palm Beach County Deputy Administrator Jon Van Arnam, Palm Tran Executive Director Clinton B. Forbes, Palm Beach County Mayor Melissa McKinlay, Palm Beach County Assistant Administrator Todd Bonlarron, Ballpark of the Palm Beaches General Manager Brady Ballard and Darren Romelus, an aide to Vice Mayor Mack Bernard.
“This additional service is a perfect example of making sure we put the needs of residents first,” Palm Beach County Mayor McKinlay said. “I look forward to everyone taking advantage of this service and enjoying all the facilities in this area.”
“We are talking about thousands of riders who now have improved access, not only to the ballpark but to educational opportunities, to employment opportunities, medical access and entertainment here at the stadium,” Palm Tran Executive Director Clinton B. Forbes said. “Getting to this point took years of planning and teamwork as we worked closely with the Board of Commissioners.”
For added convenience, Palm Tran is installing a baseball-themed shelter adjacent to the ballpark on Haverhill Road. One already exists on the Military Trail side of the ballpark. This is the third route to serve the venue and the only one with a stop at the Haverhill Road entrance to ballpark.
“This provides opportunity for visitors and residents alike,” Assistant County Administrator Bonlarron said. “No matter why a person chooses to ride route 4, having access to public transportation is always a win!”
General Manager of the Ballpark of Palm Beaches Brady Ballard said he is thrilled the ballpark will be a landmark for Palm Tran riders along route 4. He complimented Palm Tran for the support during the last year as the development of the facility took place.
“With the enhanced times and the additional stops, it’s only going to make it easier for fans of all ages and all demographics to be able to come to the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches,” he said. “We look forward to welcoming everyone with open arms especially when they are stepping off one of (Palm Tran’s) fine buses.”
In addition to new service to the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, route 4 also now goes directly to the VA Medical Center, providing improved access to medical care. Moreover, the VA Medical Center is a key transfer point for other Palm Tran routes.
