CAPE COUNTY TRANSIT PROVIDES NEEDED MILES

"We're not in it to make money. We're in it to help transport people," said Dareld Davis, project manager for Cape County Transit.

This not-for-profit, Jackson-based operation provides curb-to-curb general public transportation within Cape Girardeau County. While the majority of patrons are elderly or handicapped -- using the service for shopping trips, medical appointments, business and other engagements -- anyone who needs a lift is welcome to ride.

In order to deliver riders where they need to go, Cape County Transit utilizes a fleet of five vehicles: three six-passenger minivans, one standard 14-passenger van and one wheelchair lift van. The lift van is able to accommodate two wheelchairs and four walk-on passengers. Additionally, to keep traffic flowing smoothly, all vehicles are equipped with two-way radios; the dispatcher can always be reached by each driver.

Cape County Transit is governed by a five-member volunteer board of directors, and is kept running by eight employees, including the project manager, five drivers and two dispatchers. Davis added, "We're kind of unique in the state. We're one of only about six independent [public transportation] services in Southeast Missouri."

The people at Cape County Transit take a great deal of pride in the very important work they do each day. According to Betty Grindstaff, a driver who has been with the service since June, "I really like it. You get attached to the people after a while."

Gary Niswonger, a retired Jackson fire chief, currently works as a driver, as well as a part-time dispatcher. "This job is exactly what I've been interested in -- meeting the public," he said. "We meet a lot of nice people."

Over the past five months, the corporation's five vehicles have collectively logged around 38,000 miles. Quipped Grindstaff, "I've learned a lot of streets in Jackson and Cape."

Cape County Transit's hours of operation are Mon. through Fri., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The main offices are located in Cox Memorial Hall at 225 S. High Street in Jackson, and trips should be scheduled by calling (573) 243-1835.

In addition to curb-to-curb service, Cape County Transit provides three scheduled weekday runs from Jackson to Cape Girardeau, leaving Jackson at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The scheduled return runs from Cape Girardeau to Jackson leave at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. For pick-up locations, call 243-1835.

A suggested donation list is posted inside each vehicle, but for riders under the age of sixty who are not handicapped, the cost is considered a fare, and is double the amount.

The dispatchers and drivers keep careful records and remain in continuous contact with one another to make sure the passengers have been successfully transported to and from their desired destinations. '"We do not close the doors here until everybody is accounted for at home," commented Niswonger.

"A lot of taxi companies wouldn't tackle that job," added Davis.

Cape County Transit, Inc.

RECOMMENDED DONATIONS

In Jackson $1 each stop

Jackson to Cape $2 one way

($4 round trip and $1 for each additional stop)

Gordonville $4 round trip

Fruitland $5 round trip

Millersville, Burfordville $6 round trip

Pocahantas, Oak Ridge $6 round trip

Dutchtown $5 round trip

Delta, Whitewater -- $6 round trip