The Lenawee County community in Michigan is experiencing enhanced connectivity thanks to the formation of the Lenawee Public Transportation Authority. This unified transit system emerged from the merger of Adrian’s Dial A Ride and Lenawee Transportation in October, a move designed to dismantle long-standing barriers for local commuters.
“The necessity for a unified system became apparent when we recognized the hurdles created by two separate entities,” explains Kate Daisher, the Executive Director of the newly formed authority. “These divisions were causing significant inconvenience for our community members.” Since the merger, operations have been running seamlessly, garnering positive community feedback and enthusiasm for the improved services.
Previously, the fragmented system presented illogical challenges. For instance, a simple trip to both Meijer and Walmart, located across the street from each other, required riders to navigate two distinct transportation services. Meijer was serviced by Dial A Ride, while Walmart fell under Lenawee Transportation. This division forced riders to make separate calls and sometimes even risk crossing a busy four-lane highway to cut costs, highlighting the inefficiency of the prior system.
Access to ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital was another significant pain point. Individuals from local agencies like HOPE and Goodwill, traveling from areas like Blissfield, Tecumseh, and Addison, faced transportation gaps. The county bus system, which could reach the hospital, was not accessible to riders originating from the city-based Dial A Ride service. “These barriers were simply unacceptable,” Daisher stated. “We needed to find a solution, and merging into a single authority was the most logical step to ensure comprehensive care for our residents.”
Daisher, who assumed her role in July 2021, brought a fresh perspective that was crucial in identifying these systemic issues. Merger discussions commenced in spring 2022, culminating in the official merger on October 1, 2022, coinciding with the end of Lenawee Transportation’s fiscal year. “Coming into this role from outside the transportation sector allowed me to see the inefficiencies with a new lens,” Daisher reflects. “While I may not have experience driving a bus or dispatching, I could easily recognize the daily frustrations faced by our regular riders and question the logic behind these disjointed systems.”
The Lenawee Public Transportation Authority now operates a fleet of 16 passenger buses, accommodating 14 to 21 passengers each, along with two minivans. Crucially, all vehicles are fully accessible, ensuring transportation for individuals with mobility challenges.
The minivans are integral to the authority’s Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) program. Funded by the Michigan Department of Transportation, JARC provides vital transportation for individuals struggling to commute to and from work, thereby connecting residents to employment opportunities.
Expanding its service portfolio, Lenawee Transportation now offers non-emergency medical transportation, facilitating access to healthcare appointments, even as far as Ann Arbor. This service is made possible through a partnership with Michigan Transportation Connections, a brokerage that connects riders with transportation solutions. This collaboration not only aids residents in accessing medical care covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and some private insurers, but also generates revenue for the authority through pre-screening services handled by Michigan Transportation Connections. Lenawee Transportation also benefits from state and federal funding, further strengthening its financial foundation.
Working in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Region II Area Agency on Aging, Lenawee Transportation is committed to bridging transportation gaps for vulnerable populations.
The fare structure remains affordable, with weekday rates at $1.50 for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and $3 for the general public. Saturday fares are slightly higher at $2 and $4 respectively, ensuring accessibility for all income levels.
Looking ahead, Lenawee Transportation is focused on reshaping public perception. “We are actively working to redefine the image of the former Dial A Ride and Lenawee Transportation,” Daisher emphasizes. “Our rebranding efforts include a new name, a fresh look for our buses, a new logo, and a soon-to-be-launched website.” These changes signify a new era for public transportation in Lenawee County, one focused on unity, accessibility, and community service.
