The City of Fremont will launch the Fremont Transit Program (FTP) on Sept. 7.
The program is a new, general public transit service offering demand-response, door-to-door pick up and drop off. Fremont Transit Program will operate Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To celebrate the kick-off of this program, FTP will offer free rides from Sept. 7 through Nov. 3.
“We’re excited to implement this program and although we are starting small, we are also considering the future,” said Dakota Buesing, transit coordinator for the FTP. “If the program is successful, we’ll take a look at any adjustments that might be needed like hiring additional staff.”
The City of Fremont has received a Rural Public Transportation grant award to assist with a portion of the program costs. Riders can be picked up at any address within Fremont city limits and up to 2 miles outside city limits. Ride scheduling will begin Monday (Aug. 28), with rides starting Sept. 7. Rides can be booked by calling 402-459-2845 between 8:30 am and 4 Monday through Friday.
All vans are wheelchair accessible. As a door-to-door service, FTP will assist riders from their door into the vehicle and to the door of the rider’s destination. Drivers will not enter homes or destinations to assist riders. If additional assistance is needed, a personal attendant will be able to accompany riders at no cost.
FTP passenger fares are $2 per one-way trip, per person when scheduled at least 48-hours in advance. If space is available, same day rides may be booked for an additional fee. For the safety of riders and staff, the program has an exact change policy and riders can pay cash at the time of ride or use a ride pass. Ride passes will be available for purchase on the second floor of the Municipal Building, 400 E. Military Ave., beginning Sept. 7. Additional ride pass purchase locations will be available in the future.
“Our team hopes the free ride period will allow riders time to plan ahead,” said Grant Coordinator for the City of Fremont Angie Olson. “Riders can schedule rides to our office to purchase passes. As we determine popular destinations, we anticipate ride passes will be available at more locations.”
Riders age 15 and below are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian will be responsible for providing, installing and removing any necessary safety or booster seats. Parents and guardians are not considered personal attendants and will need to purchase fare.
Riders are asked to be ready 15 minutes prior to their pick-up time. FTP cannot guarantee rides and recommends riders have a backup plan in cases of FTP delay including unexpected maintenance, weather delays or other emergencies.
Information is available on the FTP webpage at: fremontne.gov/984/Fremont-Transit-Program
For more information or to schedule a ride (Aug. 28 or later), contact the FTP office at 402-459-2845.
