Are you looking for dependable and affordable transportation services in Western Kentucky? Look no further than Grits Transportation, the Green River Intra-county Transit System. For over three decades, GRITS has been a vital community resource, offering clean, safe, and reliable public transportation to residents across multiple counties. Whether you need transportation for medical appointments, daily commutes, or leisure activities, GRITS is committed to providing accessible and convenient transit options for everyone.
GRITS Transportation, a service of Audubon Area Community Services, Inc., operates in partnership with various organizations including the Department for Medicaid Services, Office for the Blind, Public Transportation, Veterans, and Vocational Rehabilitation. Funded through grants from the Federal Transportation Administration and administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Office of Transportation Delivery, GRITS is dedicated to serving the diverse transportation needs of the community.
Comprehensive Transportation Services Offered by GRITS
GRITS Transportation offers a range of services to meet the varying needs of the residents it serves:
- Medicaid Transportation: For Medicaid-eligible individuals without personal vehicles, GRITS provides free transportation to approved Medicaid appointments. This crucial service ensures access to essential healthcare for those who need it most.
- Para-transit Services: GRITS offers para-transit services for individuals with disabilities or those who require specialized transportation assistance. This service ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all members of the community.
- General Public Transportation: GRITS is open to the general public for any transportation purpose. A fee-per-mile service is available, making it an affordable option for errands, work, and personal travel within the service areas.
To learn more about specific services and how GRITS can assist you, contact your local GRITS office.
Service Regions and Contact Information for GRITS Transportation
GRITS Transportation is divided into service regions to efficiently serve different areas of Kentucky. Below is a breakdown of the regions and their respective contact information:
Region 1 (Medicaid Transportation Only)
- Counties Served: Carlisle, Ballard, Hickman, Fulton, Graves, McCracken, Marshall, and Calloway Counties.
- Scheduling Times:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm CST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm CST
- GRITS Office – Paducah:
- Service Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm CST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm CST
- Address: 850 Harrison Street, Paducah, KY 42001
- Phone: 270-575-9119 or 844-575-9676
- Service Hours:
Region 3
- Counties Served: Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster Counties.
- Scheduling Times:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm CST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm CST
- GRITS Office – Owensboro:
- Service Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm CST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm CST
- Address: 222 St. Elizabeth St., Owensboro, KY 42301
- Phone: 270-686-1651 or 800-816-3511
- Service Hours:
Region 4 (Medicaid Transportation Only)
- Counties Served: Hardin, Grayson, Breckinridge, Larue, Nelson, Marion, and Meade Counties.
- Scheduling Times:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm EST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm EST
- GRITS Office – Elizabethtown:
- Service Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm EST
- Saturday: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm EST
- Address: 950 North Mulberry Street, Suite 130, Elizabethtown, KY 42701
- Phone: 270-982-8220 or 844-870-4646
- Service Hours:
Important Service Hours to Note:
- Paid Fare Hours: Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm CST. Fares are $1.10 per mile with a $4.00 minimum, and $1.50 per mile for destinations outside of Region 3.
- OTS Para-transit Service Hours: Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 7:35 pm CST; Saturday, 7:45 am – 4:15 pm CST. Fare is $2.00 each way.
GRITS Transportation Guidelines for Passengers
To ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all passengers, GRITS Transportation has established guidelines that all riders must adhere to:
- Reservation Limits: To manage call volumes, reservations are limited to 3 trips per call. Please plan your scheduling accordingly.
- Respectful Conduct: Disruptive, violent behavior, or abusive language is prohibited.
- Prohibited Items: Flammable liquids, weapons, and explosive devices are not allowed on GRITS buses.
- No Consumption: Smoking, eating, and drinking are not permitted on the buses.
- Seat Belts: All passengers are required to use seat belts for safety.
- Substance-Free Environment: Alcoholic beverages and illegal substances are prohibited.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed on buses, with the exception of service animals, which are permitted. Non-service animals may be allowed if secured in a kennel or appropriate carrier.
- Passenger Conduct: Passengers should not disturb, distract, harass, alarm, or annoy the bus driver or other passengers, especially while the bus is in motion.
- Driver Interaction: Refrain from engaging in conversation with the bus driver while the bus is in motion to ensure their focus remains on safe driving.
Driver Standards at GRITS Transportation
GRITS Transportation is committed to providing safe and professional service. GRITS drivers are required to:
- Hold a valid Kentucky driver’s license.
- Be courteous, patient, and helpful to all passengers.
- Maintain a clean driving record with less than 2 traffic convictions in 3 years.
- Have no convictions for drug or alcohol-related offenses within the past 5 years.
- Have no convictions for sexual or violent crimes.
- Pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Complete comprehensive orientation and safety training.
Explore Owensboro with GRITS Bike Rental
In addition to transportation services, GRITS also offers a bike rental program in Owensboro! This is a fantastic way to explore the city and enjoy outdoor recreation.
GRITS Bike Rental Details:
- Rental Agreement: Renters must read and sign a release and indemnification agreement.
- Identification: A driver’s license is required for rental. One license per group is sufficient if the license holder assumes responsibility for the entire group. All riders must sign the agreement and pay their individual fee.
- Return Time: Bikes must be returned to the GRITS location by the close of business: 5:00 pm Mon-Fri or 1:00 pm Sat. Bikes not returned by these times will be reported as stolen.
- Rental Fee: Bike rental is just $2.00 per day.
- Security: Renters are provided with a lock and combination for securing the bike while stopping at local businesses.
- Helmets: Helmets are strongly recommended but not mandatory.
- Risk Acknowledgment: Riders use the bike at their own risk, as outlined in the rental agreement, which must be signed prior to use.
Additional Resources and Information
- Website: For more information, visit the Audubon Area Community Services website: www.audubon-area.com
- Download GRITS Application: GRITS Application (OTS service ONLY)
- Title VI Information: Learn about GRITS’ non-discrimination policies:
- ADA/Section 504 Information: Access ADA/Section 504 Complaint Procedures & Form here.
- Reasonable Accommodations Information: Download information on reasonable accommodations here.
- Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Information: Find information on Disadvantaged Business Enterprise here.
- Spanish Language Translation: Translate Website to Spanish
- Language Assistance: For language assistance at no cost, visit the International Center of Kentucky website: International Center of Kentucky or call (270) 781-8336.
- Donations: Support GRITS in providing transportation to those in need. Donate Here
GRITS Transportation is more than just a ride; it’s a lifeline for many in Western Kentucky, connecting individuals to essential services, employment, and their communities. Contact GRITS today to learn how they can assist with your transportation needs.
