Monroe County’s decision to discontinue Conch Connect on Aug.15, is a step backward for our community. This micro-transit service provided over 65,000 rides in its first year, with 85% of trips taken by locals and half of them for work. It was a lifeline for workers and residents, offering a glimpse of what a better transit future could look like.
The county cites financial concerns, but the cost — $426,000 annually — is a small price to pay for a service that reduced traffic congestion, eased parking issues and supported local businesses. Conch Connect wasn’t perfect, but it was progress. Its discontinuation leaves us without a viable alternative and undermines the county’s own transit goals.
Residents and workers increasingly live outside Key West, facing long commutes and high costs of car ownership. Public transit is critical to addressing these challenges, yet the county has failed to support other struggling services like the Lower Keys Shuttle and Workforce Express.
We need leadership that invests in solutions, not cuts them. Conch Connect was a step toward a seamless, reliable and affordable transit system — one that could ease traffic, improve air quality and help local businesses thrive.
Let’s not let this progress slip away. Monroe County must prioritize public transit and explore creative ways to fund these essential services.
Thank you,
Chris Hamilton
