New Central Call Number for McDonough County Transportation Providers

McDonough County residents needing public transportation will be able to call a centralized telephone number to expedite their ride reservations beginning Friday, July 7, 2006. 

McDonough County Public Transportation (MCPT) has established 837-RIDE (7-4-3-3) as a central point of contact for people requiring services from the American Red Cross, Bridgeway and Barry’s Van/Shuttle services. 

“Our county has a superb mass transit system,” said Gary Ziegler, MCPT Director.  “The system includes both the Go West bus system and demand-response services that provide scheduled pick-up and drop-off for senior citizens and others.”

Residents are asked to call for demand-response at least 24 hours in advance of the service time.  The central call number will be operational Monday through Friday from 6AM to 6PM.  The 837-RIDE number will replace having to call separate transportation providers for service.

“The only transportation not included in the MCPT is standard taxicab services, which continue to be offered through Barry’s Taxi,” Zeigler noted.  “Residents should continue to call Barry’s for a cab if that is the transportation they require.”

Demand-response travel through the MCPT works on a graduated fee structure. The general public fee is $2.00 for trips within a municipality and $3.00 for trips between municipalities.  Seniors and the disabled ride for reduced fares of $1.00 within municipalities and $2.00 between municipalities.  Seniors are defined as 60 years of age and older.  Service is only provided within McDonough County.  No transportation is provided outside of the county at this time.  

The American Red Cross serves primarily senior citizens, Bridgeway provides transportation for special needs riders, and Barry’s provides van and shuttle service for a variety of customers.  The centralized dispatch will allow for a more efficient and cost-effective transportation system.