MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The Capital Area Transportation Authority, also known as CATA, has been working on a plan for a $155 million Bus Rapid Transit system since 2009.

In July, the Township Board voted to oppose the BRT plan in it's current state and chose to revisit it when further details were presented. Since then, CATA has become transparent with their BRT plan, hosting three public hearings to present different BRT options in light of resident concerns.

Voting on whether to oppose or support the CATA BRT was again an action item at the October 18 township board meeting.

Many residents spoke both in a favor and in opposition of the CATA BRT. Residents who support the BRT believe that the new system would be faster, safer, and that there is great economic benefit to the system.

However, people who oppose feel the BRT would increase traffic congestion and inconvenience riders by having fewer stops.

"This system would be a monumental waste of money and cause unacceptable disruption to traffic movement and businesses in the Meridian portion of the bus corridor," said Jim Harding, resident of Okemos. "The minimal net benefits of BRT would not begin to make up for the disadvantages imposed on the community."

Because of the lack of additional information provided by CATA, the board voted to take no action on the item, allowing their original opposition to stand. Despite some dissatisfaction from the public, the board firmly decided that they will not revisit the topic.