Mercer County has provided several municipalities with new 20-seat buses to enhance local transportation services for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, announced Dan Benson, Mercer County executive, last Thursday.
“We’re ensuring that everyone in Mercer can access the critical services they need, whether that’s a medical appointment, a community center, or a food pantry,” Benson said in a media release.
East Windsor, Ewing, Trenton, and West Windsor each submitted requests to Mercer County for new ADA-compliant, handicapped-accessible buses designed to serve residents with mobility challenges. The City of Trenton received two vehicles, and each of the other municipalities received one.
The county says that the new vehicles were funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Covid-19 program.
“Transportation remains a major barrier to healthcare and socialization for many of our seniors, who still live independently but may no longer drive,” said Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann.”
“Trenton is a city that depends heavily on public transportation, and with nearly 30 percent of our residents lacking access to a personal vehicle — a percentage likely even higher among our senior population — reliable transit options are essential,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “From microtransit and NJ Transit buses to the train station and T.R.A.D.E., our residents rely on a robust network to stay connected. The addition of these senior buses, generously provided by Mercer County through ARPA funding, is another critical step toward ensuring transportation equity.”
Board of Social Services unveils new community outreach van
Also announced last week: the Mercer County Board of Social Services unveiled a new Community Outreach Van aimed at expanding access to county services. The van will travel to neighborhoods across Mercer County, intending to bring BOSS resources directly to residents—particularly those who face barriers to transportation.
“This initiative opens the door for residents who may not otherwise engage with us to learn how we can support them,” Benson said.
MCBOSS director Jeff Mascoll emphasized the importance of outreach in raising awareness and ensuring accessibility.
“The Board of Social Services provides essential support in areas such as food assistance, financial aid, employment services, and more,” said Mascoll. “But too often, people simply have difficulty connecting with us. This outreach van gives us the opportunity to connect with individuals and families in their own communities—and ultimately improve their quality of life.”
The Community Outreach Van will begin operations this summer, with a rotating schedule of stops throughout Mercer County.
