Bolinsky Takes a Ride on the Newtown Easy Transit
Key Takeaways
- Bolinsky tours Newtown Easy Transit to assess local transportation options
- Official inspects service reliability and accessibility for riders
- Local leaders push for efficient transit to support commuters and seniors
- Officials evaluate cost, convenience, and potential expansion
NEWTOWN- State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) took a short trip from the Newtown Senior Center to FAITH Food Pantry and back, celebrating Newtown’s new “Easy Transit” system. He was accompanied by Wendy Devereaux (Senior Center Associate), Venelope Gil (driver for Newtown Easy Transit). Natalie Griffith (Director of Human Services), Jennifer Faircloth (Transportation Coordinator), Jill Leblanc (VP FAITH Food Pantry), Andy Engle (FAITH Volunteer). Also accompanying us on the bus, not photographed, Alexa Griffin (Social Worker, Human Services).
The new service is actively scheduling rides to get our town’s seniors, age 60+ and individuals with disabilities who may not drive themselves but prefer not having to rely on family or neighbors to get around, get around independently. “Newtown Easy Transit” is a service exclusively for Newtown residents to get to local and nearby out-of-town appointments, grocery shopping, as an option to access town services, attend events, and more - at a low, affordable one-way cost of $3 in-town, $5 to Southbury, and $10 to Danbury. Trips to the FAITH Food Pantry are FREE! Other area towns will vary by actual mileage.
Getting started is as simple as completing a transportation Application at the Newtown Senior Center. While you’re there, ask for a tour of the facility, and receive a special gift. Scheduling is easy as well - Simply call Newtown Human Services at 203-270-4297, Monday to Friday, from 9:30am to 12:30pm for appointments to & from your destination. It’s recommended to call at least 3 business days ahead, although same-day rides will be considered, as space allows. You can reserve up to a month in advance, too.
Rep. Bolinsky said, “I had a blast on my test-run of our new, on-demand bus service, it’s great not having to drive! I encourage Newtown’s senior residents, age 60+ and folks with disabilities to try this new low-cost, safe, and convenient door-to-door service! It’s up and running, and ready to take you where you want to go. Make it a part of your regular routine!”
Bolinsky concluded by saying: “This new service was made possible by a grant requested of, and generously fulfilled by the office of Governor Ned Lamont. As Newtown grows its ridership to a level that sustains it, I look forward to its continued success and expansion as a valuable service to our community.”