Accessing reliable transportation is crucial for senior citizens to maintain their independence and engage with their community. The Township of West Orange offers a dedicated curb-to-curb transportation service for residents aged 60 and over, designed to facilitate their travel within the township. This service operates on a call-in basis, ensuring convenient access to essential destinations and activities.
This Senior Citizen Transportation service is available to West Orange residents who are ambulatory, meaning they can board the bus independently or with the assistance of a personal aide. Recognizing varying needs, the township provides buses equipped with a safety step and wheelchair lifts, with drivers ready to offer support as needed. For residents undergoing dialysis, transportation is arranged to the nearest appropriate medical facility for their treatment appointments, prioritizing health and well-being.
The senior transportation program operates based on a priority system to effectively serve the community’s diverse needs:
- Medical Appointments: Transportation to dialysis, doctor, dentist, clinic, hospital, or pharmacy is given the highest priority, ensuring seniors can attend crucial health appointments.
- West Orange Public Library: Trips to the West Orange Public Library are readily accommodated. Residents can arrange a ride by calling 973-325-4134, promoting access to knowledge and community resources.
- Shopping Trips: Scheduled shopping trips to local stores and shopping plazas are available, making errands and access to goods easier for senior residents.
- Community and Social Activities: Transportation extends to club meetings, personal visits, bingo games, and the food pantry, supporting social engagement and community participation.
- Special Arrangements: The service considers special transportation needs on a case-by-case basis, offering flexibility where possible.
- Livingston Mall: Trips to Livingston Mall are also included, though they may be scheduled with less priority compared to essential services.
A schedule illustrating senior transportation services, emphasizing the various destinations and priorities for senior residents in West Orange.
For senior citizens who require wheelchair accessible transportation, the Township provides specialized curb-to-curb service using buses equipped with wheelchair lifts. This ensures that residents with mobility challenges can also benefit from the transportation program. It is important to note that residents using wheelchair transportation should be able to manage independently from the curb to their home upon drop-off, or have assistance available.
The Township of West Orange also extends transportation services to disabled persons of all ages with permanent disabilities, upon confirmation from a physician. Additionally, residents can explore NJ Transit Access Link at (800) 955-2312 for broader transportation options. For transportation needs outside of West Orange but within Essex County, the Essex County Special Transportation Program can be contacted at (973) 618-1280.
While the West Orange Township Transportation Program is dedicated to meeting residents’ needs, it is advised not to rely on it as the sole means of transportation. Factors such as operational hours, vehicle maintenance, repairs, or inclement weather may occasionally affect service availability. Planning ahead and having alternative transportation options is recommended for complete dependability.
The Township of West Orange operates its transportation services with a firm commitment to non-discrimination. In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, services are provided without regard to race, color, or national origin. Any concerns regarding discrimination can be addressed to the Township of West Orange Health Department at 66 Main Street, West Orange NJ 07052. As the transportation program is partly funded through NJ TRANSIT, individuals also have the right to file complaints with NJ TRANSIT Customer Service – Title VI Division, One Penn Plaza East, Newark, NJ 07105, or through their website at njtransit.com/diversity. All complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory action.
To request transportation, residents are encouraged to call in their requests at least 2 to 3 days in advance to facilitate scheduling. When planning appointments, please allow for a 15-minute window for pick-up and drop-off, accommodating scheduling logistics. The dispatcher is committed to making every effort to meet individual transportation needs within the program’s capabilities. For any inquiries or to arrange a ride, please contact the West Orange Township Transportation service.
