Due to a substantial reduction in state funding, RTC Services will cease its public transportation services in Logan County after Friday, Jan. 17.
Other than the lost state transportation dollars, RTC’s finances and operations remain strong and will continue its efforts to support employment, connections and independence for individuals with disabilities, and meet transportation needs for the county’s most vulnerable residents, officials from the agency reported Tuesday, Jan. 14, in a press release. These services include transportation for:
• Individuals with disabilities (Medicaid waiver and nonwaiver).
• Senior citizens needing rides for medical appointments (in partnership with the United Way).
• Eligible residents requiring NET-medical appointment transportation, work participation and Title XX services (in coordination with Job and Family Services).
Founded in 1970, RTC has expanded its services throughout the years, first offering limited transportation services for those with disabilities in 2008.
In 2014, Logan County Commissioners approached RTC about taking over public transportation, which it did, rebranding the service RTC Transportation.
In July, RTC learned of a 40 percent decrease in funding due to statewide budget cuts. RTC worked with county commissioners to identify supplemental funding to fill the gap while continuing public transportation services.
With no alternative revenue source, RTC is unable to provide public transit for the county beyond this week.
“It has been an honor to serve Logan County in this capacity, and we are heartbroken that we can no longer support the public transit program,” said RTC Executive Director Tonya Reed. “We remain committed to our work in the community helping those with disabilities live fulfilling and productive lives.”