Survey logs transportation gaps

MOVE hopes to solve mobility problems holding back groups of people from thriving

MOVE (Mobility and Opportunity for a Vibrant Economy) Lorain County is continuing its work in developing enhanced transportation options for residents through its 2021 survey of the community.

The organization made up of stakeholders in multiple sectors is asking the community to complete the 2021 Lorain County Transportation Survey.

“The responses to these surveys are included in the Lorain County Coordinated Transportation Plan, updated annually,” said Sharon Pearson, Lorain County mobility manager.

“It also ensures that state ODOT (Ohio Department of Transportation) funding will continue to flow into Lorain County and improve transportation options,” Pearson said.

On Aug. 30, Pearson said that one of MOVE Lorain County partners, the Lorain County Office on Aging, is in the process of conducting a needs assessment among seniors, and is interested in hearing from individuals 60 and older to understand its feedback on transportation options.

For MOVE Lorain County, the focus is on developing solutions and continuing to lay the foundation for a vibrant future.

It’s asking community partners to complete the 15-minute survey.

The 2021 survey closes Sept. 10 and MOVE Lorain County is aiming to get 1,000 responses.

Funded by the United Way of Lorain County and ODOT, Move Lorain County focuses on seniors and lowincome individuals in developing transportation alternatives and resources.

The Lorain County Transportation Guide provides a list of currently available resources in the county from service providers including local governments, nonprofit organizations and more.

MOVE Lorain County approved a 130-page coordinated transportation plan, and is funded through an $80,000 grant from ODOT to identify gaps and facilitate interconnections.

Pearson previously stated lack of access to transportation is a problem across the county, in both rural and urban areas, and it’s a challenge many take for granted.

“Lack of reliable transportation can affect an individual’s ability to access community settings such as a job, school, grocery store or medical appointment,” she said. “Promoting and developing transportation options for individuals in Lorain County can result in improved health conditions, reduced costs related to workplace absenteeism and cost savings for medical providers attributed to missed appointments.”