SamTrans is looking for seniors who want to go, go, go. The Transit District recently launched “Seniors on the Go”, a new marketing campaign to help keep seniors independent, active and connected in their communities by educating them about the bus system.

Among the features of the campaign is a special button on the Transit District’s Web site. Clicking on the “Seniors on the Go” button will take visitors to information that helps take the mystery out of using public transportation. Visitors also can go directly to www.samtrans.com/seniors.

A “How to Ride” guide teaches new riders such transit basics as how to plan a trip and how to board the bus. The guide, which features real seniors from the community, can be downloaded from the Web site. It has been distributed to senior centers and libraries.

Under “Key Destinations” visitors will find an extensive list of popular places to go, such as movie theaters, shopping centers and recreation hot spots, along with the public transportation options that serve each destination.

Also on the Web site, the “Senior Mobility Guide” is a comprehensive guide to public transportation in San Mateo County, with information about a wide range of programs and services that can help seniors stay mobile and active. It includes programs that help seniors continue to drive safely and services for people who need assistance getting out into the community.

The marketing campaign also includes a series of newspaper ads featuring seniors who “Book it” and “Shop it”, letting their peers know that they can use the SamTrans bus to go to the library and also to shopping centers.

The outreach effort coincides with the Transit District’s new Mobility Ambassador Program. The program uses volunteers to introduce seniors and people with disabilities to the wide variety of transit options available in San Mateo County. After going through a comprehensive training program, the volunteers will work one-on-one with new riders to help them plan trips and accompany them as they learn to navigate the public transportation system.

Seniors, as well as any other person interested in taking SamTrans, can call the Customer Service Center for trip planning assistance at 1-800-660-4287. Trained customer service representatives are available Monday to Friday between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

SamTrans operates buses throughout San Mateo County and into parts of San Francisco and Palo Alto and offers discounted fares to seniors (aged 65 years and older). All SamTrans buses can accommodate up to two wheelchairs and also can “kneel” to allow easier entry for those taking the first big step.

10/6/09
Media Contact: Christine Dunn, 650.508.6238