BUILD Advocates for Microtransit Service, Relaying Stories of Lexington Residents in Dire Need of It
Lexington, KY, May 7, 2024
In the heart of Lexington, a community-centric organization, BUILD, has emerged with an aim to modernize the area’s transportation sector. BUILD, which culturally signifies the unification of the interfaith Lexington community, has diligently executed investigative studies, and curated resources to create a unique, sustainable form of transportation: microtransit.
Transportation Woes of Lexington
“Transportation, as we envision it, is a lifeline and our research reveals that an alarmingly high number, approximately one-third of the Lexington’s population, do not own a car or do not drive,” states Katherine Goetz, a dedicated member of the BUILD board. This issue is profound for individuals like Belinda Snead, another team member at BUILD, who needs to prioritize her schedule around her brother’s, for whom she cares. The existing transportation services require a 24-hour notice, which is realistically impossible for emergency hospital visits or unplanned grocery shopping trips, as she points out.
What is Microtransit?
In response to these hurdles, BUILD introduces microtransit. Microtransit is essentially a commitment to providing a low-cost, efficient ride within a span of 30 minutes after placing a call for the service. “With microtransit, the local communities can easily have a reliable means of transport to essential places such as the pharmacy, the grocery store, and doctors’ offices,” binds Goetz.
Alluding to the steadily growing population of Lexington, Goetz and Snead, express the pressing need for affordable transportation for all citizens. The current prevailing transportation methods, although operational for decades, no longer cater to the shelved requirements of some of the populace.
The Injustice Paradox
Recounting an unfortunate incident, Goetz narrated the ordeals of a man who required transportation back home after a shopping outing at Walmart. Despite his telephonic request for a ride, nobody showed up. He spent the night at the store. The following day, he was told he had not booked the ride 24 hours in advance. Snead and Goetz both emphasize how such occurrences are not only unfair but also potentially perilous, and no individual should live in the fear of how they will get home or reach necessary locations.
Goetz further acknowledged that the well-being of Lexington’s citizens was their topmost concern. “Many people desperately need reliable transportation, and a public microtransit service would significantly improve their lives.”
Fostering Social Lives Amidst Timely Appointments
While the focus of microtransit is to address the need for transport for appointments, it also promises to enhance individuals’ opportunities for socializing without feeling marooned at home. The leaders at BUILD mentioned that the viability of the microtransit service will be determined at the fiscal year’s end, upon completion of an extensive feasibility study. Based on this study’s findings, BUILD will strategize the future course of the service.
