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EZMO launches on‑demand app while warning of funding shortfalls
Summary
EZMO Transportation began on‑demand service via a smartphone app but said limited funding and volunteer drivers will force reduced availability until next funding year.
EZMO Transportation announced March 31 that it has launched an on‑demand ride app but is likely to cut service levels until new funding begins July 1.
The announcement, made to the Washington Area Highway Transportation Committee, came as EZMO reported meeting its annual mileage targets months early: "In January 2025, EasyMo completed 1,034 trips totaling 40,703 miles. In February 2025, EasyMo completed 1,081 trips totaling 42,144 miles," said Taylor, an EZMO Transportation representative. Taylor said the program reached its mileage goal "3 and a half months into our fiscal year."
Why it matters: EZMO provides volunteer transportation for Jefferson and Franklin counties, primarily serving low‑income, elderly and disabled riders who depend on the service for work and medical trips. Taylor said the new app will allow true on‑demand scheduling and real‑time driver ETAs while keeping an option to call a dispatcher for users who cannot or will not use the app.
Details: The app is available in the Apple and Google app stores but new users must still complete an intake and income eligibility assessment before using the on‑demand function, Taylor said. EZMO’s funding mix includes federal, state, local grants and donations; Taylor said about 71% of the program budget is used to reimburse volunteer drivers at the federal mileage rate. She also said volunteers currently provide their own vehicles and that EZMO reimburses drivers at the prevailing federal cents‑per‑mile rate.
Funding outlook: Taylor warned that, absent new grants or donations, EZMO will reduce ride availability further before the next funding cycle begins July 1. She urged committee members to contact local and state representatives and to share funding leads. "We are going to have to reduce ride availability," Taylor said, adding that the agency will continue fundraising and applying for grants.
Context and next steps: Taylor said EZMO is recruiting drivers, particularly in Franklin County, and remains engaged in outreach and fundraising. She provided a program phone number and website for donations and volunteer inquiries and said she would remain available after the meeting for follow‑up.
Ending: Committee members thanked Taylor for the update and noted the program’s role in supporting employment and other essential trips for vulnerable residents.
