HUNTLEY – Recent coverage on the funding and service of the Grafton Township bus service has not included information on how Hampshire Township residents are affected by the matter.
Hampshire Township operates its own transportation service with two 13-passenger buses – one equipped with a lift – and a minivan. The fleet was purchased as part of a senior services referendum and is paid for by township property taxes.
Transportation is available to take Hampshire Township seniors to township events, medical appointments, and special trips up to 50 miles so long as at least eight passengers ride together. There is no set ride fee, but there is a suggested donation for riders.
Remakel, who became supervisor in May, said she wanted to see the transportation program reach more seniors. She said the ridership has grown from under 10 riders that spring to about 70 this August.
“I’m seeing more and more new faces and that’s what’s really great about it,” she said.
Remakel said she has not been involved in talks with Grafton or Rutland Townships regarding their services and that Hampshire Township transportation will continue on as normal.
Sun City residents in Hampshire Township can call 847-683-9464 to schedule rides or learn more.
Grafton Township Supervisor Jim Kearns said his township’s bus was available for Hampshire Township residents but they very seldom would use the service.
Huntley Village Manager Dave Johnson said the village would likely end its annual $10,000 contribution to the Grafton bus, if service is cut off to Rutland riders on Nov. 30, as Kearns has announced.
