Seniors’ transportation options vary in Sussex

In Sussex County, many people think transportation options for senior citizens who choose not to drive are few and far between. They may be surprised to discover varied options.

The case for public transportation

While using public transportation is second nature to seniors in urban areas, it's foreign to most seniors in Sussex County. “We have to help seniors learn how to get on buses and to understand the fees,” said DelDOT Secretary Jennifer Cohan, adding DelDOT is considering offering travel training for seniors.

“We need to get across that it's not scary and that it's safe, reliable and frequent,” Cohan said.

Besides fixed-route buses, DART First State offers paratransit and FLEX bus service.

The paratransit system offers door-to-door bus service for those who need a wheelchair lift, who suffer impairments that restrict travel to a fixed-route bus stop, or who suffer physical or mental impairments that restrict them from getting on or off a fixed-route bus. The cost varies from $4 to $5 each way as long as the ride stays within the county.

Riders must first submit an application in part filled out by a healthcare professional. Phone 1-800-652-3278, option 2 for more information.

DART's FLEX service – in its second year – provides trips in and around Georgetown, Millsboro and Seaford. FLEX provides curbside pickup with reservations within one mile of a fixed route.

Local transportation options for seniors

ITNSouthernDelaware: One-on-one transportation available throughout Sussex County 24 hours a day by trained and vetted volunteer drivers. Phone 302-448-8486 or go to itnsoutherndelaware.org for more information.

Greater Lewes Community Village: Transportation and other services provided in the Lewes and Milford Zip codes on weekdays by trained and vetted volunteers. Phone 302-703-2568 for more information or go to greaterlewescommunityvillage.org for more information.

CHEER: A fleet of buses is available to members at seven centers for trips to stores, banks and medical facilities, and to the centers themselves. In addition, CHEER volunteers provide one-on-one transportation for members to medical appointments. Cape Region centers are in Lewes, Long Neck and Milton. Phone 856-5187 for information about transportation.

Senior centers: The Lewes Senior Center and the Cape Henlopen Senior Center in Rehoboth Beach provide local transportation for their members.

Lewes center: 302-645-9293.

Rehoboth center: 302-227-2055