Dane County Human Services Secures State Grant to Facilitate Transportation for Elderly, Persons with Disabilities

July 24, 2009
Joshua Wescott, 267-8823 or 669-5606.
County Executive

Dane County Human Services has secured a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to assist with efforts to connect seniors, persons with disabilities, and low-income families with transportation. The state grant will simplify access to transportation services offered in Dane County. It will strengthen coordination between the Human Services Department and the dozens of independent providers it contracts with to assist those with special needs. “Whether it’s getting to work or going to the grocery store, one of the greatest challenges people with special needs face is getting around,” County Executive Kathleen Falk said. “This state grant will assist the ongoing efforts of the county and its private partners to help these individuals with this basic necessity.” The state grant will help the county schedule and coordinate rides for those with special needs, help more people in need of transportation assistance, and be a one-stop shop for those in need of information and/or referrals for transportation programs. The new state grant funded position will also oversee work by county purchase of service agencies to help people with disabilities better access public transit and accompany seniors on bus routes until riders are comfortable with taking transit. They will also help them with trip planning and safety awareness so they’re better able to use public transportation more independently. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation Grant to the county is for $103,458. Residents can obtain information about ride programs available throughout the county by calling 242-6489. # # #