|
Ocean County Purchases New Minibuses
OCEAN COUNTY - Ocean County is getting ready to replace some of its smaller buses used for the popular "Reserve A Ride" program for seniors and residents with disabilities. (For more information on Reserve A Ride, see this week's Regional News section.)
Under a contract awarded by the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders at least eight new 12 passenger, two wheelchair position minibuses will be purchased from American Bus and Coach in Trenton.
"These vehicles will replace buses that have reached or surpassed their useful road life cycle," said Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the county's public transportation system known as Ocean Ride. "It's important to make certain our residents are transported to their destinations in vehicles that are up
to date and well-maintained."
On any given day, 40 to 45 buses under the "Reserve A Ride" program are on the roads
transporting county residents. "Reserve A Ride," which is part of the county's Ocean Ride system, allows seniors and persons with disabilities who need custom transportation to a doctor's office or other medical facility to call the county in advance and schedule a ride. Transportation is provided directly from the home to the doctor's office and back.
"This program serves thousands of Ocean County residents every year," said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as chairman of the county's Office of Senior Services. "Our seniors and our disabled residents rely on this service."
The cost per bus is $71,225 and the total funding of $569,800 will come from the senior citizen and disabled resident transportation grant program, which is a state program, funded by taxes generated from annual casino revenues.
| 
