
On December 2, 1982 the first district operated bus pulled out of the downtown Citrus Connection depot. Today’s fleet of 38 buses and 15 Handy buses that cover more than
7500 miles daily can thank the foresight of our wise city leaders of the
time. Some believed that public transportation was a vital step for a growing
city struggling to enrich the lives of its citizens. Others said firmly that
helping people help themselves was part of being a great city. Many understood
that a strong public transportation system would enrich the lives of every Lakelander,
whether they used the service or not. They were all right.
Today the Citrus Connection picks up and delivers more than 6,000 people to
work, play and school and other destinations every day. They provide specialized
transportation for citizens who are unable to use regular
service.
Take a minute to look through this quick “mile marker” that outlines
the last two decades of your Citrus Connection—and the road ahead. In
two short decades of growth, planning and cooperation the Citrus Connection
has seen phenomenal success, and we thank you. Because if you live or work in
the Lakeland area, you are part of the Citrus Connection.
Whether you ride, or have employees who ride; whether you had an opportunity
to vote for annexation or already lived within the district; whether you pause
in traffic for a boarding passengers or wait while a bike is loaded, you help
support a viable transportation system for our city—and that’s important.
In fact, Florida
Trends calls it one of the most important incentives a city can offer new
business. So give yourself a pat on the back for helping make Lakeland greater
than ever. And someday soon, why not climb aboard? You
can bet we’re going your way!
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