Navigating transportation can be a significant concern, especially for seniors and individuals with disabilities. In Gardner, Massachusetts, the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) offers a range of services designed to ensure everyone can get where they need to go. This guide will walk you through how to schedule a MART transportation ride, along with exploring other valuable transportation options available in Gardner.
Scheduling a MART Ride for Seniors Through the Gardner Senior Center
If you are a Gardner resident aged 60 or over, or have a documented disability, you can access dedicated transportation services through a partnership between MART and the Gardner Senior Center. This service provides convenient in-town rides on weekdays. Here’s how to get started and schedule your MART transportation:
- Register with the Gardner Senior Center: The first step is a one-time registration process. Contact the Gardner Senior Center at 978-630-4067 to register for the senior transportation program. This registration is essential to access the discounted MART service for seniors.
- Call MART Directly to Schedule: Once registered, you can directly call MART to schedule a ride. The number is 1-800-922-5636 X 3. Remember to mention that you are registered through the Gardner Senior Center’s program.
- Advance Notice is Required: MART requires at least 24 hours’ notice when you schedule a ride. Plan ahead and call in advance to secure your transportation.
- Weekday Service: This specific senior transportation service operates on weekdays only. For transportation needs outside of weekdays or for different MART services, contact MART directly to inquire about other options.
It would be beneficial to insert an image here. For example: “ Alt Text: Smiling senior woman boarding a MART bus for scheduled transportation in Gardner, MA.
Other Senior Transportation Options in Gardner
While the MART partnership with the Senior Center is a key service, Gardner offers additional transportation solutions for seniors:
Community Action Center (CAC) Medical Transportation
The Gardner Community Action Center provides medical transportation for seniors aged 60 and over. This service is available Tuesday through Friday, typically from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Medical Appointments Only: CAC transportation is specifically for medical appointments.
- Advance Booking: Appointments must be made well in advance. Call the CAC at 978-632-8700 to schedule your ride and discuss availability.
- Service Area: CAC services extend to Worcester and Concord but do not cover the Boston area.
- Contribution Requested: A contribution based on the distance of the ride is appreciated to help sustain the service.
MART ADA Para-Transit Services
For seniors with disabilities who cannot use the regular MART bus service, MART offers ADA Para-Transit Services. This is a curbside, origin-to-destination service for ADA-eligible individuals.
- Eligibility: This service is for those who are unable to use standard MART buses for some or all of their trips due to their disability.
- Service Area and Hours: ADA Para-Transit operates within the same service areas and hours as the fixed-route MART bus system.
- Shared Ride Service: This is a shared ride service, meaning you may be traveling with other passengers.
- Application Required: To apply for ADA Para-Transit services, contact the Gardner Senior Center at 978-630-4067 to obtain an application.
An image could be placed here to illustrate ADA Para-Transit. For example: “ Alt Text: MART ADA Para-Transit van providing accessible transportation for wheelchair users in Gardner.
GAAMHA Transportation
GAAMHA Transportation provides a comprehensive, fee-for-service transportation option for individuals of all ages, including seniors and those with disabilities. They offer door-to-door service and accommodate diverse needs.
- Open to All Ages and Needs: GAAMHA serves individuals of all ages and can accommodate those with handicaps, physical challenges, visual and hearing impairments, and the elderly.
- 24/7 Availability: GAAMHA operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day, offering flexibility for various schedules and needs.
- Service Types: Services include transportation for work, shopping, recreation, non-emergency medical appointments, and special occasions.
- Fee-for-Service: GAAMHA transportation is a fee-for-service, but may be eligible for insurance payment or reimbursement. Call 978-632-0934 for more information and to schedule a ride.
Veteran’s Transportation through Montachusett Veteran’s Outreach Center
The Montachusett Veteran’s Outreach Center provides transportation specifically for veterans to veteran’s hospitals and clinics.
- Veterans Only: This service is dedicated to veterans.
- Appointments Required: Appointments are necessary and service is based on availability.
- Contact for Details: Contact the Montachusett Veteran’s Outreach Center at 978-632-9601 for more information and to schedule transportation.
Conclusion
Gardner, MA, offers a robust network of transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities. From scheduling a MART transportation ride through the Senior Center to exploring services like CAC, ADA Para-Transit, GAAMHA, and Veteran’s Transportation, residents have access to diverse solutions to meet their transportation needs. For the most direct and up-to-date information and to schedule your ride, always contact the respective transportation provider directly using the phone numbers provided.
