The Arc Chemung-Schuyler has been awarded an $80,000 grant to help expand rural transportation options in Schuyler County.
The funding comes through the National Rural Transit Assistance Program’s Community Rides Grant Program and will support the agency’s new Community Rides project in partnership with Schuyler County Transit.
The initiative is designed to address first- and last-mile transportation challenges that often make it difficult for residents in rural areas to reach jobs, medical appointments, and community services. Plans include extending Dial-a-Ride service hours, adjusting intercounty routes, adding Saturday service, and piloting fare-free rides to reduce cost barriers.
“This is an exciting collaboration with Schuyler County Transit that wouldn’t be possible without the support of Schuyler County leaders and residents,” said Dorthy Asbury, director of transportation for The Arc Chemung-Schuyler. “The community still has many barriers to transportation and this project, piloting transportation solutions, is an excellent demonstration of how The Arc’s mission, vision, and values draw meaning from the community. We are thrilled to be able to give back to our community in important and impactful ways.”
Organization leaders said more details about how and when the new services will roll out are expected in the coming months.
National RTAP, funded by the Federal Transit Administration, provides free training, technical assistance, and other resources to rural and tribal transit providers nationwide.
The Arc Chemung-Schuyler supports more than 1,200 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across an 18-county region. It is a chapter of The Arc New York, which collectively serves more than 60,000 people across the state and advocates for expanded opportunities and inclusion for people with disabilities.
