SAN DIEGO–In his role as vice-chairman of the Facilitating Access to Coordinated Transportation board, county Supervisor Dave Roberts today announced the availability of seven, wheelchair-accessible vans to serve disabled people.
The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravans are equipped to carry up to two passengers in wheelchairs or up to four passengers without them.
“The little-known FACT agency is working hard to move people who are most in need of transportation services,” Roberts said. “FACT successfully competed for a $308,000 grant, which translates into dependable vehicles and rides for disabled and elderly people. This is a private-public partnership that works.”
FACT Chairman Bob Campbell oversaw the ribbon-cutting for the van presentation. He stressed the importance of accessibility, the hard work of FACT board members and Sol Transportation.
Sol Transportation, a private transportation service, is working with FACT to finance the operating expenses for the vehicles. FACT will lease the vehicles free of charge to Sol, and in exchange, Sol will provide FACT with a predetermined number of free trips to eligible passengers.
“The availability of these mini-vans goes a long way to mitigate a shortage of handicapped-accessible vehicles in San Diego County,” Roberts said.
To learn more about FACT, call (760) 754-1252 or visit www.factsd.org.