Lorain County has received $908,000 in state grant money to help provide public transportation in Vermilion.

“This funding represents an important step toward addressing a unique challenge for our community,” stated a press release issued by the City of Vermilion.

Vermilion is a city split between Lorain and Erie counties. The funding is expected to help provide transportation opportunities for all Vermilion residents, including those who live in the Erie County portion who need transportation into Lorain County, as well as help Vermilion residents travel within the city, regardless of which county they live in.

“This is especially welcome news following the loss of Sandusky Transit service earlier this year and will help create better connections for residents who rely on public transportation for employment, appointments, services and other essential needs,” the release stated.

There are still details to work through before service begins.

The city administration will work with Lorain County officials to determine how the program will operate, including service areas, scheduling and other details.

“This is a great step forward in improving transportation and connectivity for all of Vermilion,” the release stated.

Meanwhile, Lorain County Commissioner David Moore said he and his fellow commissioners are hard at work attempting to nail down additional funding for the Via LC Microtransit transportation program.

“These are the type of partnerships we need to keep transportation a viable economic tool,” Moore said of Vermilion officials’ willingness to continue public transportation.

Hearings are being held this week — 6 p.m. Oct. 21 at the Lorain County Transportation Center, 40 East Ave. in Elyria, and 1 p.m. Oct. 22 at United Way, 642 Broadway Ave. in Lorain, according to Interim County Administrator Karen Perkins.

Moore is also meeting with officials from the Cities of Elyria and Lorain in an effort to help fund the transportation system in those areas.

Many Elyria school students are using Via LC Microtransit after the school district cut funding for buses, said Moore, adding that he hopes to keep the service up and running for those who need it.

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