VI Older Citizens Get a Free Ride

On Friday, September 11th, Governor John P. DeJongh (D) signed into law Act 7089 allowing those who carry a valid Senior Citizen card issued by the VI Department of Human Services to ride on Vitran buses for free.

This measure will provide VI older citizens with choices, and may encourage those who are contemplating whether or not to continue driving with an option. For many in the Virgin Islands, essential services and shops are not within walking distance. A lack of sidewalks, crosswalks and bus stops acts as barriers, preventing non-drivers full access to their community.

The decision to drive or not drive may also be viewed from the economic perspective. The rising cost of gasoline, automobile insurance, vehicle maintenance and parking considerations may serve as factors in a senior’s decision to hang up their keys.

The element that may most impact a senior’s decision to stop driving is the availability of reliable, comfortable and cost efficient options.  The least popular option is fully relying on family members for transportation. This decreases a senior’s sense of independence. Other options include private taxis, open safaris, mini-van taxis, Vitran buses or Vitran Plus.

Private taxis can quickly become cost prohibitive. Open safaris and taxi vans, while less expensive, aren’t accessible throughout the islands and generally don’t have routine schedules. Vitran buses, however, have regular schedules and, for the most part, are reliable.

The last option, Vitran Plus is a service that is reserved for individuals with disabilities. Riders must apply and become accepted into the Vitran Plus program. It is a curb to curb service where people with disabilities and the elderly are picked up at their homes and taken where they need to go and then returned home. The cost for this service is $2/each way.  The new law does not apply to Vitran Plus.

With Act 7089 allowing older citizens to ride Vitran buses for free, they have a great opportunity to try out the bus system and see for themselves whether it is an option that will work for them.

AARP is particularly pleased with this new option because it provides members with choices. In mid September, AARP Virgin Islands staff and volunteers performed an audit of the Vitran bus system for its Day of Service activity. Over 20 volunteers on all three islands rode and evaluated the bus ride. Most enjoyed the experience and thought that the rides were surprisingly pleasant.

 It is hoped that older citizens will take advantage of the free bus service. Buses may see increased ridership which could result in a reduction of private vehicle use. Greater usage of public transportation could lead to less traffic congestion and pollution. A renewed interest among policy makers may encourage greater financial support.

Greater availability of systems that make our communities “livable” is one of AARP’s top goals. Livable communities are those which accommodate the needs of all age groups and physical abilities. The Legislature’s encouraging older citizens to ride buses by providing free service is a meaningful step along the path to making our communities “livable” for all Virgin Islanders.