May 21, 2024

If you’re not familiar with the township bus service, here’s what you need to know: 1. The township bus service for senior and disabled residents — age 55 and older for seniors; 18 and older for the disabled — offers three lift-equipped buses to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, canes, shopping carts, etc.2. Rides within the township are free for registered residents and provide curb-to-curb service. 3. Reservations will be accepted up to two week prior to a scheduled appointment and services hours for the bus are Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments must be scheduled to start between 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with all appointments finished by 3 p.m. The Township Riders Initiative Program (TRIP), in partnership with PACE, was created for residents 60 years of age and older who need to travel outside of the township for medical appointments. This is a shared program between the townships of Elk Grove, Hanover, Palatine, Schaumburg, and Wheeling, although locations of travel are limited. The TRIP service area includes: Barrington, Palatine, Hanover, Schaumburg, Maine, and Wheeling Townships, along with some Veterans Affairs facilities and hospitals in downtown Chicago. Here’s what you need to know about TRIP: 1. The cost for this program is $5 for each township border crossed, with a maximum out-of-pocket expense of $10 each way.2. One caregiver or service animal is allowed to accompany the rider, at no additional charge. 3. Reservations are required at least three days prior to the appointment date, but no more then seven days ahead of time. Service hours for the TRIP program are Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. “As we commemorate this milestone anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this invaluable service,” said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse. “Here’s to another 50 years of enhancing the lives of our residents and connecting communities through our Transportation Department!” To use either of these transportation services, individuals must be residents of Elk Grove Township, provide a copy of their state ID or driver’s license, and fill out the application form found at elkgrovetownship.com/senior-disabled-transportation/. If you or someone you know is choosing to age in place at home, consider the Elk Grove Township Transportation Department. To make an appointment for the township buses or TRIP Program, please call (224) 265-6115.