A Dublin resident since 2015, Barb Vaughn is an active user of the Dublin Connector. In fact, she was part of the program’s pilot in 2019 as a resident at Avondale Senior Village.
“I like the freedom that I have again,” she says. “Before the Dublin Connector, I was not able to go out to many places. With the service, I’m able to go all over Dublin.”
The Dublin Connector is a fare-free transportation service for Dublin residents over the age of 55, residents with disabilities or anyone who works in Dublin. For workforce members, the Dublin Connector provides necessary transportation options for Dublin’s workforce, eliminating a barrier for many jobseekers looking to work in the community.
The service supports Dublin’s sustainability efforts by reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. This decreases greenhouse gas emissions, accident rates, traffic congestion and the need for repairs to public infrastructure due to vehicle wear and tear.
The Dublin Connector also provides a sense of independence for residents who may not be able to transport themselves as easily as they once were able to. The vehicle offers professional drivers, wheelchair accessibility and regular sanitation to protect riders with compromised immunity.
“I have a power chair, so the Dublin Connector can accommodate that. Then, from my drop-off location, I can use my chair to go additional places,” says Barb. “The wheelchair lift on the bus is super accessible, even my friends who have trouble getting up and down the stairs can use the lift.”
The Dublin Connector is sponsored by the City of Dublin and operated by SHARE Mobility. To use the Dublin Connector, riders should create a SHARE Mobility account. Trips must be booked at least two hours in advance and can be booked through the SHARE Mobility app, the Dublin Connector website or by calling 833.742.7333. The Dublin Connector will pick up and drop off to any address in Dublin.
The SHARE Mobility app makes the scheduling process simple. “We can schedule our rides on the app, the website or by phone,” says Barb, “They also send a text message alerting riders that the driver is on their way and that the driver has arrived.”
The accessibility of the Dublin Connector has allowed Barb to enjoy Dublin events with friends.
“My highlight this summer was going to the Dublin Market at Bridge Park. By using the service, I was able to see the Market and choose my own fresh fruit and vegetables. I also ride the Connector to the Dublin Community Recreation Center and participate in the programs offered there.”
Barb even uses the Dublin Connector to stay in touch with family. “My mom lives at Dublin Glenn so I can take the Connector to go visit her,” she says.
To learn more about the Dublin Connector, visit https://connector.dublinohiousa.gov/signup
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