JobLinks Ride Share Program Helps Commuters Save Money

(MILBRIDGE) A new program offered by the Washington Hancock Community Agency (WHCA) Transportation Services division is helping local residents overcome obstacles associated with getting back and forth to work, child care and elder care. Participants in WHCA’s JobLinks ride share program can be matched with others who wish to share a ride, share expenses, and share the driving.

The program serves those commuters who do not have a vehicle who seek a ride to and from work and are willing to help cover costs, those who currently drive themselves who would like help paying for gas, and those who would like to share the driving. WHCA guarantees rides home in emergencies via taxi operators in both counties. WHCA was instrumental in establishing the new Machias Valley Taxi company, and is encouraging people to take advantage of this service by calling 255-TAXI.

WHCA’s Transportation Services Director Linda Belfiore explains that her staff is dedicated to improving transportation options in the bi-county region, a challenging service area due to its rural nature. At only 13 people per square mile, Washington County has the third lowest county population distribution in the state, yet it is nearly the highest in households that lack access to a vehicle. Hancock County is worse than state averages in both categories, and exceeds even Washington County in the average daily commute time at 35 minutes. The region lacks public transportation, so people often find themselves riding alone to routine locations such as work, child care and elder care.

Belfiore hopes people will take advantage of this money-saving program. “Almost every worker can benefit from this program. They can get rides, share transportation expenses, and reduce vehicle wear and tear. And all of us can benefit from making new friends.”

Applications are available on WHCA’s website (JobLinks), at WHCA’s offices in Milbidge and Ellsworth, and via mail by request. For more information, call Cheryl Robbins, Transportation Office Manager, at 546-7544 or 664-2424 extension 4419. If calling from outside of the local exchange area (546 or 667), dial 1-877-374-8396.

This program is made possible through the Job Access and Reverse Commute grant program (Maine DOT and Federal Transportation Authority), Maine Community Foundation and the Community Transportation Association of America.

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