VAN WERT, Ohio (WLIO) - The Allen County Regional Transit Authority has launched transportation services to Van Wert County. Through the RTA, local residents can take advantage of new micro-transit and demand-response rides.
"So, we're starting off with our micro-transit and demand-response, which is like a door-to-door service, and then in a certain zone door-to-door service," says Brian Wildermuth, Executive Director of Operations, ACRTA.
Made possible through a new Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership grant, the RTA purchased two vehicles and subsidized ride costs for the one-year pilot program. The program will also help identify a possible fixed route in the future. The idea of expanding transit services originated with First United Methodist Church in Van Wert after hearing from community members about the need for transportation.
"Lots of clients come in, and one of the biggest needs is transportation- not only in the city, but in the county and in other small cities around us as well. We just knew that Van Wert needed the transportation, and so, we just have been helping Brian and the Allen County RTA get set up with businesses, agencies, and with our community so we can have public transportation," says Teresa Shaffer, Director of Outreach, First United Methodist Church.
With First United Methodist Church and the Allen County RTA teaming up, both organizations say these services will help ease the burden of finding transportation.
Made possible through a new Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership grant, the RTA purchased two vehicles and subsidized ride costs for the one-year pilot program.
"We also have 3 local food pantries, and sometimes, it's hard. People can walk or ride their bikes, but to get their groceries home, you know, it's a chore to take 5, 6, 7 bags of groceries, so that's really going to help those people that are using our food pantries and just people, you know, that their car breaks down and they either can't get to work or can't get to Walmart- it just opens up lots of possibilities," Shaffer adds.
"There's over 3,000 commutes each day between Van Wert County and Allen County for just work purposes. It's exciting to be able to connect the communities and provide the service. It's a community we've talked to over the last handful of months getting it started. You can tell that they are very excited about it," Wildermuth adds.
Micro-transit rides will start at $3 each way, operating within two zones in Van Wert County. Demand-response rides start at $6 each way, operating anywhere in the county with door-to-door service. Rides run from 6:20 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. on weekdays. To schedule a trip, call the Allen County RTA, visit their website or download their app.
