The Archuleta County Mountain Express Transit (MET) received recognition from the State Unit on Aging (SUA) for exceptional work due to their increase in services to the County, particularly for local seniors.
The evaluation states a “strength” by the MET for adding five new stops this year and “meeting the needs of older adults getting around the community.” The evaluations’ results are from an annual on-site assessment completed in October of this year by the Division of Aging and Adult Services, SUA. Areas of the evaluation are governed by the Older Americans Act and State Funding for Senior Services programs operated by or under contract with the San Juan Basin Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
Region 9 AAA Director Christine Knoell monitors state funding and its distribution, requests for reimbursement, as well as service contracts throughout the Region. Knoell explained the evaluation tackles many objectives such as checking records, insurance, compliance, background checks, and anti-discrimination, ensuring proper policies and/or procedures are in place. “The MET was found to be one of the Regions top strengths,” stated Knoell.
In 2023, Transportation Coordinator Kevin Bruce worked side-by-side with both drivers and ridership for new ways to best benefit the community. The new stops include the Could Cap and Sundown intersection, Cloud Cap/Park intersection, Park and Eagles Loft intersection, the PLPOA Rec Center, and Nick’s Hangar on CR600/Piedra. Just last week, the MET received another new stop located at Aspen Village Center and Cornerstone Drive. “We’re always looking for ways to expand routes and better serve our community,” Bruce commented. “Seniors are a big part of what we do, and we work to tailor what we can to meet their needs.”
In addition to five new stops, Archuleta County was awarded both federal and state grants to design and build a new transit facility. The Facility will house the MET’s administrative offices and a main bus terminal complete with a lobby. The facility will be located near the Sheriff’s Office at Harman Park, with a groundbreaking scheduled for the Spring of 2024.
A reminder Seniors over the age of 60 can be verified to receive exclusive assistance such as discounts, trips to the food pantry, complimentary bus rides, and home pick up to attend senior lunches at the Senior Center. Seniors always ride free within town limits. Ride donations are also accepted and appreciated.
For more information about the MET including schedules and/or to inquire about rides to and from both Arboles and Durango, visit archuletacounty.org/MET or call 970-264-2250.
Ashley Springer began working as Archuleta County Communications Specialist and Public Information Officer in 2023.