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TRANSPORTATION
SERVICES ARE Mobility is an easy concept to grasp: the ability to get from one place to another. In our modern world, with so many high-tech methods of getting around, mobility is also easy to take for granted. For millions of older Americans who have lost the ability to drive, however, mobility is the key to independence, a social life, health and an adequate quality of life. For these isolated senior citizens, mobility is invaluable. Enriching Lives Transportation serves both human and economic needs for older individuals. It enriches an elder’s life by expanding opportunities for social interaction and community involvement. At the same time, it enhances the individual’s capacity to live independently, reducing or eliminating the need for institutional care. Historically, transportation and mobility needs for the elderly were met by families and friends. An elder who could no longer drive or access traditional public transportation was forced to rely upon other for rides. Today, however, family members and friends have little time to shuttle seniors around. The steadily growing number of two-income households only exacerbates this problem. Add into this equation the growth in the elderly population and it’s clear how the need for public-sector aging transportation services have swelled. Councils on Aging, working with other government agencies, have responded with a many - pronged approach to transportation services for the elderly: Available Transportation for Greater Lawrence’s Senior Citizens EZ TRANS: The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority operates the EZ Trans Service, which provides transportation for Senior Citizens in Lawrence, Methuen, Andover and North Andover for $3.00 per trip. Seniors receive discounted rides by pre – purchasing Ticket Books from the Council on Aging. A 10 ride Ticket Book cost $20.00, which breaks out to $2.00 per trip. Senior call two day before they wish to travel. EZ trans services is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. call 1- 877- 308-7267 for more information and an application. MERRIMACK VALLEY REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY BUSES: These Buses cover all the major roads in the City of Lawrence. In addition to the regular scheduled bus stops, the MVRTA operates on a flag policy. Riders who wish to board the bus may just wave to the bus operator and be on the same side of the street. The fare for Senior Citizens is just .50 cents and transfers are free. Bus routes are available at the main terminal on Common Street and at the Senior Center. NORTHERN ESSEX ELDER TRANSSPORT, INC.: This program uses volunteer drivers who transport seniors to local and out of town medical appointments, essential shopping and social interaction when other means are either unavailable or unaffordable. The LCOA is part of a consortium including fourteen COA’S. Passengers donate.30 cents per mile and may call our Senior Center (978) 794 – 5886 for a ride. LIFT PROGRAM: The City of Lawrence contracts with American Training/Vanway to provide bus service weekly to all Lawrence Senior Housing Complexes for shopping at local food and shopping malls. Each complex is assigned a particular day of the week. There is no charge for Senior Citizens. Telephone #978-685-2151. SENIOR CITIZENS TRIPS: The LCOA sub-contracts trips with Rite-Way Travel. Seniors can travel to a variety of interesting destinations at a discounted cost. Elders are picked up and dropped off at the Senior Center. Information on upcoming trips is available at our Center located at 155 Haverhill Street. For
additional information, please call your local Council on
Aging. Send your questions
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