The good folks who run the Pike Area Transit System just want to get the word out about the good deal they are offering to residents.

And make no mistake it is a good deal.

The public transportation system provides an on-call, low-cost transportation option to residents throughout Pike County.

For only a minimal notice – one day for in-town fares, a week for out-of-town trips – residents who need transportation but have no access can take advantage of one of the four buses PATS has available.

Fares for the trips are as low as $2 to $4 per ride, making the subsidized transportation system an affordable option for many residents.

Unfortunately, many residents in Pike County who could benefit from the system may not be taking advantage of it, directors said this week. Many residents mistakenly believe the system is available only for elderly residents, which isn’t true. Many others may not understand that PATS buses are available to take residents to areas such as Montgomery or Dothan, if necessary. Or that PATS will pick up residents throughout Pike County, from Troy to Brundidge and elsewhere.

We urge readers to spread the news about PATS and to keep the system in mind. The service is an important one for our community, and is funded in large part by grants. The city and county leaders throughout Pike County worked long and hard to put together an effective and efficient transit system, recognizing the need among our residents. With the securing of a recent $143,000 grant, the program continues to grow.

Anyone wishing to secure a ride or to find out more information about PATS can call 674-2451 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.