EAST WINDSOR (WTIC News) -- In communities underserved by public transportation, some residents find "getting a ride" can be almost impossible.
"Access is an important thing," says East Windsor First Selectman Jason Bowsza. "Being able to get to work, being able to be part of the community, being able to realize your fullest and best potential starts with being able to get there."
Now, as part of a two-year, $18.5 million pilot program, Connecticut is trying to help with expanded "microtransit" for anyone needing a ride within a specific service area. Nine transit districts will be served by vans, which will be accessible by phone or through a smartphone app.
"What we want to make sure is that people are taking advantage of the opportunity to expand their world," adds Bowsza. "To open the world up a bit more and get into the workforce, get into community engagement, make sure they're getting good food, getting good healthcare."
Gov. Ned Lamont made the announcement at the largest apartment complex in East Windsor, Mill Pond Village, where Bowsza expects many residents will take advantage of GHTD (Greater Hartford Transit District) Link, which begins April 1.
GHTD Link will also serve Enfield. Rides will cost $3 for one-way service. Vicki Shotland, executive director of the Greater Hartford Transit District, says the vans will be especially helpful to residents with disabilities, seniors and those who simply can't afford a car or pricier rideshare services:
"If you don't have local bus service, then you don't have paratransit, you're really not serving anybody, so East Windsor has a huge population (approx. 11,000) and we'll be able to serve low-income housing communities, we'll be able to serve educational institutions."
Microtransit options are also being offered in towns including Norwalk, Ansonia/Derby/Shelton and Milford. The state Department of Transportation lists the available services here.