In late 2013, the River Valley Regional Commission (RVRC) was notified that the Department of Human Services (DHS) transit contractor in an adjacent region was discontinuing their contract. Recognizing that this could have a devastating effect on those that relied on transit service to access jobs, meals, medical treatment, and other services, RVRC quickly stepped in to fill the looming service gap. The new contract doubled the RVRC’s service area from 8 counties to 16 and tripled the number of trips provided.

As a result of the RVRC’s involvement, transit service is improving throughout the area. RVRC’s expansion has resulted in new cooperative efforts among subcontractors, improved quality of new and existing vehicles, and a streamlined administrative process that lowers overhead costs. Most importantly, these efforts sustained critical transit options for residents and allowed service centers throughout the region that rely on participants for funding to keep their doors open.

To further support the sustainability of DHS transit services, RVRC is working to coordinate DHS service with public transit in counties where public transportation systems exist. This allows for even greater cost efficiencies and fulfills state goals for the Mobility Management program. RVRC has already coordinated with a number of counties, and is currently exploring options in the City of Americus and Talbot County.

The River Valley Regional was awarded a 2014 Excellence in Regional Transportation Award.  View descriptions of other award winning projects here.