CHESTER COUNTY, PA — The Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC) has expanded its Coatesville Link bus route. As of June 24, 2024, the Coatesville YMCA is now a scheduled stop on the route, marking the return of public transportation to this vital community hub.
Strategic Partnership for Enhanced Accessibility
This development results from a strategic partnership between TMACC and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. The collaboration aims to boost accessibility and equity for Chester County residents, particularly those living in and around the City of Coatesville. The new bus stop is not just a transportation link; it symbolizes a commitment to making essential services more accessible to everyone in the community.
Tim Phelps, Executive Director of TMACC, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “This is a vital link connecting the people of Coatesville, especially the youth, to a tremendous community resource. The Coatesville YMCA offers numerous programs that promote health, wellness, and personal development. By restoring public transportation to the Y, we are ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to benefit from these essential services,” he stated.
Free Summer Vouchers and Senior Benefits
To encourage usage, individuals traveling to the Coatesville YMCA will be eligible for a free voucher for their return trip throughout the summer months. Additionally, senior citizens aged 65 and older can ride for free on all ChescoBus transit routes, further enhancing the service’s appeal and accessibility.
Bertram L. Lawson, II, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled to add the Coatesville YMCA to the network of affordable public transportation options in Chester County. We look forward to continuing to work with TMACC to expand service options at our Jennersville YMCA, so that members of our community can benefit from convenient and reliable transportation options and access to the YMCA’s extensive programs and services,” he said.
Addressing Community Needs
For many residents, especially seniors, teens, and families without cars, the addition of a scheduled bus stop at the Coatesville YMCA is a lifeline. Jess Rigo, Executive Director of the Coatesville YMCA, highlighted the broader impact: “The new bus stop will make a profound difference in the lives of our members and the broader community. It’s not just about providing transportation; it’s about opening doors to opportunities for health, wellness, and connection.”
The YMCA is committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. By forming partnerships with health and community organizations, the YMCA aims to bring its programming to communities that might otherwise struggle to access these vital services.
Broader Community Impact
The Coatesville Link bus route offers improved connectivity to key destinations, including healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and employment centers. This comprehensive approach ensures that residents can access the services they need to lead healthy and productive lives.
By expanding the Coatesville Link, TMACC and the YMCA are addressing critical gaps in transportation and ensuring that essential services are within reach for all community members. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving greater health equity and fostering a more connected, vibrant community.
For more information on the ChescoBus Coatesville Link and to view the updated schedule, residents are encouraged to visit TMACC’s Chescobus page.
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