|
Transportation Happenings
We understand transportation is one of the biggest issues in our region. Here is some information and news related to the topic.
The Age- Friendly planning committee for Deerfield, Sunderland and Whately brought in Tina Cote and Michael Perrault from the Franklin Regional Transit Authority to speak on a number of public transit topics. General service points to share from that meeting include:
-
fares on fixed routes continue to be free for all riders. Using the RouteShout app is the best way to find bus stops, routes, and arrival times. If you have thought about giving public transit a try, this summer is a great time to step aboard.
-
the self-scheduling FRTA Access program transports riders within a specific zone, or zone to zone, from locations and at times of the riders choice. A smart device and the app are the most convenient way to schedule your trips, but riders my also send and email message to [email protected] to schedule rides. Find the informational brochure here.
- Zones are as follow:
Zone 1 – Deerfield, Erving, Gill, Greenfield, Leyden, Montague and Whately
Zone 2 – Erving, New Salem, Orange, Warwick and Wendell
Zone 3 – Arms Library in Shelburne Falls or the Charlemont Park and Ride
Zone 4 – Athol Hospital, Athol YMCA and Market Basket Plaza
-
The Demand Response program is much like the Access program but gives priority to individuals over the age of 60, LifePath eligible consumers, nursing home residents, and veterans with a disability rating of 70% or higher. An application is required to qualify for this service.
- Both programs cost $3 to $4 per one way trip ($6 to $8 round trip). Riders in need of assistance with getting on and off the bus, or with bags following shopping, etc. are allowed a personal attendant of their choosing who pays half price.
-
FRTA dispatch is always available to answer your questions and offer help by calling 413.773.8090 ext. 103
***
Regional Transportation Plan
The Franklin County Regional Transportation Plan, which is updated every four years, helps to provide a clear vision of the county and prioritizes its needs in a context that is suitable for the rural nature of the region. This Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) update focuses on the importance of providing safe, efficient, and resilient mobility for residents and freight, while taking into account the rural character of the county.
The RTP specifically emphasizes the following goals:
- preservation and improvement of the existing transportation system, while also maintaining the region’s scenic and natural resources
- providing residents with transportation options to the singly-occupied vehicle
- strengthening the local economy and industries, and
- improving the region’s livability and resiliency.
Comments on the draft documents will be accepted through TOMORROW, Friday, June 16th, 2023. Comments should be submitted in writing via email to Beth Giannini, Transportation Program Manager, Franklin Regional Council of Governments at [email protected].
***
Funding for Transportation Initiatives
MassDOT’s FY24 Community Transit Grant Program is now open for applications for operating and mobility management projects to expand mobility for older adults and people with disabilities. If you would like to apply, contact Rachel Fichtenbaum for application training and the application forms: [email protected] or (857) 368-8584.
Applications are due June 23, 2023.
Later this year, MassDOT will open applications for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Currently, only the operating and mobility management applications are open.
***
Survey - MassDOT Wants Your Input
Some states - such as Connecticut and New Hampshire - are divided into regions, and each region has a Regional Mobility Manager whose job is to help older adults, people with disabilities, and others who need a ride learn about their transportation options and find a ride, and/or help local organizations come together and collaborate to fill gaps in service and start new transportation programs.
MassDOT has contracted with researchers from AECOM to explore whether a system of Regional Mobility Managers would be beneficial for Massachusetts, or whether something else would work better here. Share your insights through this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JB3L7TM
| 
