Lone Tree expands ride service to accommodate medical appointments and increase accessibility

The Transportation & Mobility Board Meeting held on March 27, 2025, in Littleton City, Colorado, focused on enhancing local transportation services, particularly in response to the needs identified during the pandemic. A significant discussion centered on the accessibility of ride-request services, highlighting the challenges faced by residents without smartphones.

Board members noted that while the ability to request rides has improved since 2019, the current system still limits requests to only hours in advance. This limitation has proven problematic, especially for individuals needing transportation for medical appointments, which often require planning days ahead. The meeting revealed that many residents of Lone Tree, home to several medical institutions, have been traveling across Colorado for treatments, underscoring the demand for more flexible transportation options.

To address these needs, the board proposed expanding the existing transportation program to include a call center, allowing residents to request rides more easily. The discussion also emphasized the importance of a "turnkey service," where a single contractor would manage all aspects of the transportation service, including drivers, vehicles, and software. This approach aims to streamline operations and improve service reliability.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore these enhancements further, ensuring that the transportation system evolves to better serve the community's needs, particularly for those requiring medical transportation. The board's focus on accessibility and comprehensive service reflects a growing recognition of the diverse transportation needs within Littleton City and its surrounding areas.