Oswego trustees are discussing a potential increase in funding for paratransit services provided by Kendall Area Transit to better assist individuals in need. The village has been working with the Voluntary Action Center of DeKalb County since 2015 to provide door-to-door transportation services through Kendall Area Transit. This program specifically caters to senior citizens and those with disabilities in Kendall County.
Funding for Kendall Area Transit comes from state and federal grants, as well as contributions from municipalities and counties. The current agreement with Voluntary Action Center was set to expire, but has been extended until the end of the year at the current rate. The center has proposed a new agreement with Oswego for a three-year term, with an increased annual fee of approximately $72,000 to $96,900.
Kendall Area Transit Executive Director Nate Kloster provided an overview of the program, stating that they served around 32,000 riders in Kendall County last year. The program has seen a decrease in ridership due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has started to recover.
Village trustees are considering the proposed increase in funding, which would allow for 2,500 additional rides each year. However, they have requested more clarity on the agency’s ridership data to ensure that all involved parties are contributing their fair share.
Riders interested in using Kendall Area Transit must register for the service and pay a fee of $3 for curb-to-curb service. Seniors receive a discounted fare of $2 for limited out-of-county destinations. The service operates from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Overall, the increase in funding for paratransit services could greatly benefit the community and provide more transportation options for those in need.
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