The City of Grand Terrace, nestled in the heart of California's Inland Empire, is on the verge of a significant upgrade to its Senior Bus service, thanks to dedicated individuals and a generous grant. In a recent conversation, city officials shed light on the program's history and its exciting future.
The Senior Bus Program: A Lifeline for Local Seniors
The Senior Bus program, operated by the City of Grand Terrace, has long been a lifeline for its senior residents. This service, funded through OMNITRANS, currently utilizes an aging bus for transportation, but changes are on the horizon. The city recently secured a grant of around $100,000 to acquire an electric bus, set to arrive in March, providing a much-needed upgrade.
According to city officials, the program is dedicated to serving seniors aged 55 and older, but it's not exclusive; anyone with special needs requiring the service can access it. "We're not going to carbon date you," joked one official, emphasizing the inclusivity of the program.
Meet "Miss Vicky": The Heart of the Program
The success of Grand Terrace's Senior Bus program is largely attributed to one individual - "Miss Vicky." Vicki, a dedicated bus driver, was inherited from the city of Redlands when they closed their bus program, and she has truly been a game-changer. Miss Vicky has not only kept the aging bus in excellent condition but also introduced exciting new programs.
Beyond Grocery Runs: Weekly Excursions
One of the standout features of the program is the introduction of weekly excursions. Every Thursday, seniors aboard the bus are treated to outings to popular restaurants like IHOP and Golden Corral. These excursions allow seniors to visit places they might not usually have access to, making it a cherished experience for the community. The trips are open to anyone who needs them.
Expanded Routes for Greater Accessibility
Bus Drive fondly known as Miss Vicky has also expanded the program's routes, making it more accessible and accommodating. In addition to grocery runs, the Senior Bus offers regular trips to Citrus Plaza, Walmart in Colton, Loma Linda hospitals, VA facilities, and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. These routes make medical appointments and shopping more accessible to seniors, improving their quality of life and independence.
Convenience and Structure
This significant improvement in the program's structure allows seniors to plan their outings. They can rely on a regular schedule, knowing they can go to lunch every Thursday or visit specific locations on designated days. The service even provides door-to-door pickups, ensuring the seniors' convenience and comfort.
What the Future Holds
The eagerly awaited electric bus, scheduled to arrive in March, will bring a new level of sustainability to the program, further enhancing the service's appeal. With 16 seats, the new bus will maintain the current capacity while ensuring a more eco-friendly and modern mode of transportation.
A Valuable Resource for Grand Terrace
The Grand Terrace Senior Bus service is undoubtedly a vital resource for the community. It not only offers transportation but also a sense of camaraderie, adventure, and independence for the senior residents of the city. The program's expansion and the upcoming addition of the electric bus promise an even brighter future for this beloved service.
As the program continues to grow and evolve, it serves as a shining example of how a community can come together to make a real difference in the lives of its seniors. Miss Vicky and the Senior Bus program are making sure that, in Grand Terrace, no senior is left behind.