LAST RIDE: “Last Bus Makes Final Run Here,” The Era reported on May 1, 1968.

That was 50 years ago.

The article detailed where bus service in Bradford stood at that time:

“Bradford’s bus service was discontinued late Tuesday afternoon.

“Officials of the Bradford Transportation System, Inc., reported the final ‘run-around-the-loop’ left the downtown terminal at 5 p.m. and that the operator checked out at the bus office shortly before 6 p.m.

“Ray G. Colosimo, president of the firm, said last week that he had notified the Public Utility Commission that service would end on April 30, and that his concern had operated here for about 10 years at a loss. He stated that an average of 100 passengers were being handled a day on the route which included sections of the city and Foster Brook in what was known as ‘The Loop.’

“City Manager Milton E. Lopus reported no new developments in the situation Tuesday evening. He informed City Council on April 2 of Mr. Colosimo’s intention to cease operations by May 1, and recommended some action to maintain service, ‘possibly by municipal operation.’ Thus far Council has not openly discussed the bus matter.

“Mr. Lopus also has been in contact with Blue Bird Coach Lines of Olean, N.Y., which had expressed interest in the local situation, and has explored the possibility of state or federal assistance.”

Today, even the historic terminal building is now gone, finally demolished in 2016 to make way for new commercial development. Built in 1880, the structure was originally Pompelon Hall and was later converted to be a transportation hub that also housed several other businesses.

Bradford is not without bus service: the Area Transportation Authority (ATA) can now be seen making rounds around McKean County. There’s even plans to build a new transportation center downtown.