ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Escanaba’s only locally-based taxi service shut down this week. On Tuesday, the Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) met with public transportation users to discuss their options moving forward.
DATA currently provides weekday rides. A few Uber drivers in town are working to meet the need on evenings and weekends, and Checker Transport of Marquette has been providing trips to the Delta County Airport since December. Get-A-Cab of Iron Mountain is also considering expanding its services to Delta County.
Several community members expressed their concerns about the state of local public transportation to DATA Executive Director John Stapleton. One of the primary concerns was securing rides home after hospital stays.
“That’s one of the things we definitely want to work with with OSF [Hospital], to try to fill that gap,” Stapleton said.
Community members also had questions about accessibility for those who use wheelchairs or walkers. Largely due to insurance and liability issues, each company has different policies about carrying and assisting passengers with mobility aids. For example, Checker Transport offers an accessible bus, but the fare is higher than it is for a taxi.
According to Stapleton, the primary obstacle when it comes to expanding hours is funding. He anticipates asking voters to support a county-wide transportation millage next year.
“We can’t fill 100% of those gaps, probably ever,” he said. “JN was running seven days a week, 24 hours a day. That would be unheard of even for a taxi company to really pick up anymore.”
In the coming months, a transportation study is being done in Delta, Schoolcraft, and Menominee counties. Stapleton says that will help DATA and other providers to better understand the needs in each community.
In the meantime, the Transit Authority’s mobility manager can connect those who need rides with providers. Anyone looking for transportation is encouraged to call (906) 786-1186 and ask to speak with the mobility manager. DATA also offers a mobile app and can help callers install it over the phone.
For more information on the Delta Area Transit Authority’s current hours and services, visit databus.org.
