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Rate change for public transportation begins June 30

| May 31, 2023 12:00 AM

The Mineral County Pioneer Council is a group of volunteers with a representative from the Montana Transit Association, that meets monthly to discuss the needs, changes, challenges and costs of providing public transportation in Mineral County.

This is a nonprofit organization looking for volunteer drivers (a stipend is provided) that meets the fourth Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. in the St. Regis Senior Citizens Center at 209 Lobo Loop. The meetings are always open to the public.

The transportation program serves everyone — seniors, individuals with disabilities, low income and the unemployed. Rides are given to local medical clinics, specialists in Missoula and life essential services. The primary objective is to make the service both affordable and reliable.

At least one minivan trip is made to Missoula, Monday through Friday, and in-county transportation is also available. Due to increasing operating costs, a rate increase will take effect on June 30:

Medical transportation that is not on a scheduled run to Missoula will be $75 round trip. The same cost applies for medical services in Plains. In-county medical transportation is $40 round trip.

In-County roundtrip costs:

St. Regis: $11

DeBorgia: $13

Haugan: $13

Saltese: $14

Missoula roundtrip:

West End: $26

St. Regis: $23

Superior: $20

Alberton: $13

Scheduled transportation to Plains has ceased but can resume if there is a demand. To schedule transportation or inquire about Medicaid reimbursement, call Sue at 406-552-7003 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.