Tell us a little of your transit system’s background and history. How did the system start and where is it today?

Neligh Dial-A-Ride started in August 1978. Through a pilot program for rural America, two buses for services throughout Antelope County were acquired through the Federal Highway Transportation Department. Service routes throughout the county did not increase as had originally hoped for so the service continued in the Neligh area and operated under the City of Neligh. Today Dial-A-Ride is heavily used locally, but continues to increase throughout the county. In the early years of operating the transit, the perception was the service was for the elderly and handicapped. Today riders as young as three years old and of all mobility levels ride on Dial-A-Ride. The transit service started with some days not having a single ride, being new and of course starting to acquire riders. Today, over 40 rides a day is common routine for most of the year.

How long have you served as the manager?

For 12 years.

How does your transit system serve the local community?

Dial-A-Ride offers curb-to-curb demand response service Monday through Friday 8 A.M.-5 P.M. and Sunday from 9 A.M.-12 P.M.

What are some highlights of serving your community?

Offering transit service in a rural community is a pretty awesome amenity the community has. It is fun to see the evolution of riders by some of the younger riders going to school or daycare on Dial-A-Ride who later ask for rides to the swimming pool or golf course until they are driving themselves. Other riders may schedule rides for their elderly parents and then later on are joining us for rides for themselves.

How does being a member of the Nebraska Association of Transportation Providers benefit your system?

The networking opportunities are wonderful to learn, share or bounce ideas off of others in the same industry.

What do your riders think of your transit system?

The kids love Dial-A-Ride and often ask mom or dad if they can ride with us rather than have their parents take them. Adults enjoy the casual visits with the drivers along the way and the occasional serenade from the school kids in sharing their Christmas or spring concert music.