Public Transportation Seeks New Drivers to Aid with Routes

SCHOHARIE — Schoharie County Public Transportation needs drivers, and you can help. Christine Kraemer from Schoharie County Public Transportation said that there is a need for drivers, as it is difficult to fully operate all routes with current aging staff. 

The county has been supportive in taking over the new public transportation routes following the withdrawal of the Senior Council from transportation in September of 2025. 

“The county has been 100% behind us,” Kraemer said. They thanked the county board for their support. It allowed Public Transportation to get an operating license in 29 days and keep operations going despite the rapid and unexpected withdrawal of the Senior Council.

“It was amazing,” she said. County offices, including County Administrator’s Office, Personnel, Treasurer’s Office and Clerk of the Board offices were so helpful and gave transportation their full attention. “These employees are dedicated,” she said of the Public Transportation staff. “They have been so, so good to the department and the public.” “This is a great team,” she said. Our catch phrase here is “We pull rabbits out of a hat every day and lately it seems we are pulling elephants.” The team pulls off great accomplishments everyday for the residents of Schoharie County, she says. Caring about the needs of our passengers.

Kraemer said that either way, there will be help through a county request for proposals (RFP) and potential new hires. However, the process has been difficult.

“We are in need of drivers, without drivers, the buses don’t move.” she said.

The RFP includes a plan to hire existing drivers and new drivers. Drivers may change employers, but would not lose their jobs. The RFP is due in March.

The current situation has caused multiple hiccups, including the route 3 to Middleburgh, Birches, and several mobile home parks. We are asking residents in these effected areas to please contact the office (518) 234-0952. We are doing our best to get people where they need to be.

Route 1 is operating with service from Cobleskill to Schoharie. 

Currently there are part-time and full-time positions open. Anyone with a Class C or B license with a Passenger endorsement (15 passengers or more) may apply. Transportation is willing to train to get the Passenger endorsement. 

“We’re here trying to help you,” she said. “We’re doing our best to move people around.” This includes using vans and cars.

“This is what we do,” she said.

Those facing issues or concerns across the routes should call Public Transportation at 518-234-0952.