Update given on LifeStream (10/22/07)

A not-for-profit organization providing transportation services in Jay and surrounding counties has delivered a performance analysis for the 2007 fiscal year.

The New InterUrban rural bus system, provided by LifeStream Services, made 25,113 trips in a six-county region in the period from July to September, according to a quarterly performance report delivered to Jay County Commissioners. Of those, 7,730 trips were made inside Jay County, benefiting 203 riders.

Jay County residents received more trips than people in any other county, the information said, although the 203 individuals served is the third lowest among participating counties in transportation service with the New InterUrban.

Delaware, Jay, Randolph, Blackford, Grant and Madison counties all receive service.

Madison County had the most residents, 400, using the New InterUrban program. More than 4,465 trips have been provided this fiscal year.

The increased demand for riders in Jay County has allowed LifeStream to operate a second school route vehicle for students this year, according to a statement from Jenniffer J. Hartley, transportation driver supervisor. This has eliminated a waiting list that once existed.

"It's almost like a taxi service," Commissioner Faron Parr said. "They've got to call ahead though."

For more information, go to www.lifestreaminc.org.

Commissioners allotted $43,500 for the van service for 2007, Commissioner Milo Miller Jr. said. For 2008, that amount will be increased to $50,000.

In other business, commissioners signed paperwork this morning proclaiming November as National Hospice Month in Jay County.

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