Community Transportation Association of America Expo 2005 – St. Louis, MO May 25, 2005 In the Beginning 1977 First Rural Project in Illinois 2 Counties, 100% Demand Response

Service Area Today Nine Counties in Southeastern Illinois 3361 Square Miles Population 103,442 Deviated Intercity and Zoned “Residential” Routes Demand Response for Non-existing Services

Route Development Originally designed for demand response, deviated routes evolved from coordinated delivery of agency consumers and general public. Zoned route patterns and frequency are designed around specific needs of the community.

Zoned Route Example City Divided Into Quadrants Bus Works Through Quadrant every 15 Minutes, Pickups at Homes, Stop Shelters and Designated Shopping Areas Harrisburg Route has Two Vehicles in Opposite Rotation

Coordination Coordinated use of a single provider, maximizes funding for service delivery,allows comprehensive vehicle use, faster integration of new programs. Rides reserves the right to mix agency consumers and general public on all routes. Offers seat space, not dedicated vehicles Contract services are provided to over 65 federal, state and local agencies and programs, both public and private sector.

Getting There Be attractive, offer quality, responsive service. Develop a corporate culture that embraces and promotes coordination, be a strong local advocate. Offer “value added” services, i.e., format your billing to meet agency reporting needs. Form strong interagency groups, meet regularly. Use Technology, dispatch/management software a key item. Be flexible, innovative and above all patient.

You have just seen a random photo taken on the Harrisburg Residential Route on May 17, 2005. Did you notice?: Like good neighbors, they are all riding together. Some are sponsored by agencies, some are general public, can you tell which is which? They can’t either! Systems should be designed to provide service to everyone. Then by design, they will be sensitive to the needs of older adults, people with disabilities and others regardless of their economic status. Coordination is an important key to providing that comprehensive service in your community, especially in rural areas. Let’s All Get On Board Together!