News Staff
OVA is continuing negotiations with GoGoGrandparent as it prepares for a future transition away from Bus 16, but no change in service has taken place yet.
General Manager Christel Antone updated residents on the transportation plans during the Sept. 15 OVA Board meeting, saying OVA is still working through contract details with GoGoGrandparent, an on-demand transportation service that connects older adults with reliable rides.
One issue still under discussion involves liability for residents using the service. Antone said OVA and its attorney are working with GoGoGrandparent to determine how liability would be handled under the proposed agreement.
With Bus 16, liability falls under the city’s transportation contract, Antone said, while rides booked directly through companies such as Uber are covered under those companies’ insurance. OVA is seeking similar clarity before finalizing its agreement with GoGoGrandparent.
Despite the remaining contract discussions, Antone said she expects the parties to reach an agreement.
OVA is also working with the City of Santa Rosa and GoGoGrandparent to organize a town hall or informational meeting in the coming weeks. The meeting would give residents an opportunity to learn how the new service would work, hear from those involved in the transition and ask questions.
Once GoGoGrandparent service begins, OVA anticipates an overlap with Bus 16 of at least one month. The overlap is intended to give residents time to become familiar with GoGoGrandparent before Bus 16 service ends.
“The city wants to make sure that Oakmont’s in good hands,” Antone said, emphasizing that OVA does not intend for residents who rely on Bus 16 to be left without transportation.
Antone said the transition discussions involve OVA, GoGoGrandparent, the city’s transportation department and Councilwoman Dianna MacDonald, with the goal of making the change as smooth as possible for Oakmont residents.
In the meantime, Bus 16 continues to operate as usual. Other transportation options will also remain available, including Bus 30, paratransit and Oakmont Volunteer Helpers, which provides rides to medical appointments and other destinations.
OVA will provide additional information as contract negotiations progress and details of the planned town hall are finalized.
See all related posts here: GoGoGrandparent – Transportation Archives