JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — “It’s a quick way for folks to either connect to a bus stop or to the grocery store or the doctors' office,” David Cawton, communications manager for JTA, explained. Starting Monday, Dec. 2, people in Oakleaf, Talleyrand and Pritchard can use the service.
When JTA first initiated the ReadiRide program, it served five neighborhoods. Now, it serves 11.
“The whole idea behind this is to give people, who may not have access to a mass transit system, a convenient way--another option,” Cawton said.
You can book trips Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. -- by either calling (904) 679-4555 or using the My JTA app on your phone. You must book at least two hours before your trip. The ride comes to your door. JTA said it can even make accommodations like wheelchair service.
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The Jacksonville City Council recently approved funding to allow JTA to help people living in food deserts, too. The initiative would allow people on the Northside of Jacksonville to ride to grocery stores for free or a reduced fair. The Northside is currently considered a food desert.
“Everyone should have access to fresh groceries.” Cawton said. “Just because you live in a certain neighborhood does not mean you should be stranded and not have access.”
The funding is good to go, but City Council still needs to approve the pilot program details, according to legislation on its website.
RELATED STORIES: Florida Food Access Roadmap shows area food deserts | City holds open discussion on new grocery story proposal in Northwest Jacksonville
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