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Berlin seniors told new bus is ordered as rides remain strained
Summary
The commission heard transportation data showing 3,178 duplicated one-way trips since January and 119 riders to 105 locations; a new bus has been ordered but staff said arrival depends on federal funds reaching the state, while drivers and vehicle availability continue to limit service.
The senior director told the Berlin Senior Commission that transportation remains a critical and constrained service: "We have 119 riders since January to 105 different locations providing a total of 3,178 duplicated one-way trips," the senior director said.
Commissioners and staff said the program declines some trips when vehicles are full, drivers are unavailable or a bus is in service. The director said a new bus has been ordered and the town has budgeted its 20% share, but delivery is delayed while the federal transportation funds that pay the remaining 80% have not yet been released to the state.
Why it matters: Commission members stressed the importance of the bus for residents who do not drive, particularly for medical appointments and food access. Staff said they prioritize medical and nutrition trips and will make exceptions to normal scheduling rules for urgent prescription pickups.
Details: Commissioners discussed operational limits, including driver shortages and vehicles out for maintenance, that result in declined trips. Staff described flexibility in policy: while a 24-hour rule normally governs scheduling, staff will make exceptions for prescriptions or urgent medical needs.
Next steps: The commission said it will continue to track service declines and follow up on the bus delivery once federal funding is confirmed.
