North Country organizations get funding to enhance transportation services
North Country organizations get funding to enhance transportation services North Country Public Radio
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Enhancing Transportation Services for Older Citizens and People with Disabilities
A Schroon Lake Senior Citizens Club bus. Photo source: Schroon Lake Senior Citizens Club Facebook page
Oct 04, 2024 —
Multiple organizations in the North Country will receive funding to enhance transportation services for older citizens and people with disabilities. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations to ensure inclusive and sustainable transportation for all.
It’s part of a $52.1 million pot of money administered by the state and provided through a Federal Transit Administration program. This funding aims to address the transportation needs of vulnerable populations and promote social equity.
According to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office, it’ll support 133 initiatives statewide that “seek to remove barriers to existing transportation services or expand transportation alternatives.” This demonstrates the commitment to achieving SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which emphasizes the importance of accessible and affordable transportation systems.
Funding Recipients for Specialized Services
- Battenkill Community Services, Inc. in Greenwich – $175,718.40
- Herkimer County Chapter NYSARC, Inc. – $357,406.40
- Lewis County Health System in Lowville – $87,859.20
- NYSARC, Inc. Oneida-Lewis Chapter – $274,425.60
- Samaritan Hospital and the Eddy Foundation, on behalf of Senior Care Connections, Inc. – $351,436.80
- Schroon Lake Senior Citizens Club, Inc. – $95,722.40
- Volunteer Transportation Center, Inc. in Watertown – $61,052
These organizations will receive funding for the purchase of new/replacement buses to improve their specialized transportation services. By investing in modern and efficient vehicles, they contribute to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which promotes sustainable and resilient infrastructure development.
In addition, the Volunteer Transportation Center, Inc. in Watertown will also receive $153,255 to reimburse volunteer drivers who provide senior transportation in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. This financial support recognizes the crucial role of volunteers in ensuring the mobility and well-being of older citizens, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
By prioritizing the enhancement of transportation services for older citizens and people with disabilities, these organizations and the state of New York are actively working towards achieving the SDGs. Access to quality transportation is essential for individuals to lead productive lives, access essential services, and participate fully in society. Through these initiatives, New York is setting an example for other regions to follow in creating inclusive and sustainable transportation systems.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all | – The funding provided through the Federal Transit Administration program aims to enhance transportation services for older citizens and people with disabilities, ensuring access to medical care. |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all | – The funding supports initiatives that seek to remove barriers to existing transportation services or expand transportation alternatives, contributing to the development of reliable and sustainable infrastructure. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status | – The funding aims to ensure access to quality transportation for all New Yorkers, removing barriers and promoting social inclusion. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities, and older persons | – The funding supports the purchase of new/replacement buses for the delivery of specialized services, improving accessibility and affordability of transportation for older citizens and people with disabilities. |
Source: northcountrypublicradio.org
