By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
One of the most unique developments in Adams County in many years sprang to life on the second day of the new year: a countywide public transportation service.
“We’re ready and going, and hoping to get the word out,” Adams County Council on Aging Director Michelle Lengerich (photo) said Tuesday in the early hours after the service – Adams County Transit – began operations.
The Council on Aging, based in the MERIT Center in Decatur, is operating the countywide service.
The launch “has been good,” Lengerich said. “We started having calls right away at 6 (a.m., when the service began).”
Lengerich noted how the council on aging has served seniors and disabled adults for over 50 years and has been pursuing a countywide transportation service for more than 20 years.
“After years of hard work, perseverance and dedication, this dream will become a reality on January 2, 2024,” the council’s December newsletter pointed out.
The council has beefed up its crew of drivers and its fleet of vehicles in recent months and now has 10 drivers and three office staffers, plus Lengerich, to handle the public service.
She added that the council is already taking about a dozen county residents back and forth to work on a daily basis.
To secure a ride, an Adams County resident should call the council, 724-5316, 24 hours in advance of when they need the ride.
“You call us and we accommodate you however we can on the schedule,” Lengerich explained.
Hours of the service are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The fee schedule is as follows:
* Trips within Adams County of 0-9 miles, $5 each way.
* Trips within Adams County of 10-20 miles, $10 each way.
* Trips within Adams County of 21-30 miles, $15 each way.
* A medical trip from Adams County to Wells or Allen counties, $1 per mile up to 50 miles one way.
Children under the age of 12 and accompanied by an adult ride for $1.
Children under the age of 12 traveling alone will be charged the regular Adams County Transit rate.
Active-duty and retired military veterans ride free with proof of service.
Credit cards are accepted, Lengerich said.
She also pointed out that the fares were determined after consulting with three neighboring counties with similar demographics.
The council has $5 gift vouchers/certificates available.