Bus Program Opens to Wheatland, Naperville Seniors

After the Naperville Park District decided to no longer participate in a program offering rides to seniors, Wheatland Township is getting on board to provide transportation for seniors.

Beginning Friday, June 1, senior citizens living within the boundaries of Wheatland Township can take advantage of Ride DuPage, a 24/7 bus service provided thanks to a partnership between Pace bus and area municipalities.

Jay Madalon, general assistance administrator for Wheatland Township, said the program opened up to Wheatland seniors when the Naperville Park District pulled out of the service.

“The Naperville Park District decided to get out of the program, so they asked us if we wanted to take over for them,” Madalon said, adding the township jumped at the chance to extend the program to seniors who live outside of Naperville.

To qualify, seniors must live within the boundaries of Wheatland, Naperville or Lisle townships or the City of Naperville. The service is also open to individuals age 16 and over with disabilities.

Before catching a ride, Wheatland seniors must register by filling out an application at the Wheatland Township office, 31W236 91st St., Naperville.

“The process usually takes about 48 hours,” Madalon said. After that, seniors can call to schedule rides for door-to-door service, whether they need transportation for personal, medical or work-related reasons.

Seniors must call at least 24 hours in advance to schedule a ride.

Fares are $1 per ride, plus $1 per mile. In other words, a four-mile trip would cost $1 initially, plus $1 per mile, for a total trip cost of $5.

For more information on the service, contact Wheatland Township at 630-851-3952 or visit www.wheatlandtownship.com.