National Aging and Disability Transportation Center grant to support on-demand transportation for Pikes Peak region

Feb. 28, 2023

WASHINGTON, DC – A $70,000 grant will support the development and implementation of an on-demand transportation program for under-represented groups in the Pikes Peak region, and a comprehensive regional mobility guide. The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, administered by USAging and Easterseals, awarded one of its seven Equity and Accessibility Implementation Grants to the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments.

“This grant has allowed us to pilot an on-demand transportation program for older adults and individuals with disabilities. We have partnered with Envida to provide on-demand rides to a select group of individuals in the Colorado Springs area. This pilot will help us identify the resources needed to successfully provide this service and expand the on-demand service model in the future,” said Laura Crews, mobility coordinator at PPACG. “We’re excited at the opportunity on what we can improve on to address the needs of adults in a more equitable and accessible manner.”

The grant will allow providers to purchase equipment and software to add or supplement on-demand services for riders in their service areas. Eligible riders will have more availability and flexibility for scheduling rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, social or religious events, or other personal needs.

The grant will also provide for the production and distribution of a regional mobility guide, outlining the services available for fixed route, on-demand, specialized or medical transport, carpool, pedestrian and cycling resources in the three-county area of El Paso, Park and Teller counties.

About the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments

PPACG’s 16 local governments collaborate on issues that cross political boundaries and work together to reach solutions that benefit the entire Pikes Peak region. PPACG’s primary focus is regional planning in transportation, aging issues, military impact planning and air and water quality.