Are you a Beachwood resident aged 60 or older, or an adult with disabilities living independently? Discover a valuable resource offered by the City of Beachwood: a free, door-to-door wheelchair lift equipped van service. This supplemental transportation solution is designed to help you stay active and connected within your community. While it’s not intended for all transportation needs, it’s a fantastic option for accessing medical appointments, running errands like shopping and banking, and participating in social and recreational activities. Keep in mind that van availability is subject to scheduling, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Who Can Use Senior Transportation Services?
This specialized transportation is available to Beachwood residents who are:
- 60 years of age or older
- Adults with disabilities residing in independent living settings
To determine eligibility and register for this service, simply call Shelly Drenski at 216-292-1971. This one-time registration is necessary before you can begin utilizing the transportation service. Please note that the City of Beachwood reserves the right to determine service eligibility.
Service Area and Operational Hours
The free van service operates within the eastern suburbs of Cuyahoga County and the University Circle area. Services are provided Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. This coverage area ensures that seniors and disabled residents can easily access key locations within the region.
Booking Your Ride: Transportation for Senior Needs
Reserving your ride is easy. Just call 216-595-3709 to reach the Van Request Line. When you call to request a ride, please be prepared to leave the following essential details on the answering machine:
- Your Full Name
- Home Address
- Phone Number
- Date of Ride Request
- Destination Address
- Destination Phone Number
- Appointment Time (if applicable)
- Desired Return Time
- Information regarding wheelchair, walker, or escort needs
It’s recommended to call as soon as you know you need transportation. The Van Request Line answering machine is the dedicated system for both ride requests and cancellations. City staff regularly check and process these requests throughout the day.
You will receive a call back within the week to confirm whether your ride request can be accommodated. If your ride is confirmed, a staff member will contact you the day before your scheduled trip with your precise pickup time. Please be ready and watching for the van 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup, as drivers are unable to leave the van to look for residents and cannot pick up unscheduled riders.
This free transportation service aims to enhance the independence and well-being of Beachwood’s senior and disabled community members, making it easier to navigate daily life and stay connected with the wider community.
