MEO highlights transportation services available to West Maui residents

Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. is highlighting transportation services available to West Maui residents. MEO provides specialized transportation options that help reduce barriers to accessing essential services, medical appointments, employment, education and other resources. Depending on the service, transportation is provided at no cost or a low cost.

“Reliable transportation can be the difference between missing an appointment or getting the care you need, turning down a job or being able to get to work,” said MEO Transportation Director Patty Copperfield. “Our goal is to make sure transportation is not the barrier that keeps people from accessing the services and opportunities they rely on.”

MEO provides two transportation services: Human Services Transportation and the Maui Bus ADA Paratransit Service. MEO Transportation also processes eligibility applications for the Maui Bus Fixed Route – Fare-Free Program.

Human Services Transportation provides no-cost transportation through MEO’s Rural Shuttle and iShuttle services. The Rural Shuttle operates between Lahaina and Central Maui on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with pickup at 9 a.m. and return at 1:30 p.m. The iShuttle provides transportation within West Maui Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are required. Applications can be completed over the phone.

ADA Paratransit Service is operated by MEO and provided through the County of Maui Department of Transportation and Maui Bus. The service provides curb-to-curb transportation for eligible riders. Fares are $2 per ride or $20 for a booklet of 12 rides. Riders can use the Maui Bus Mobility app to book, cancel and track rides. Reservations are required, and applications are reviewed by the County of Maui Department of Transportation.

Maui Bus Fixed Route – Fare-Free Program allows eligible riders to ride Maui Bus fixed routes, operated by Roberts Hawaiʻi, at no cost. Eligible riders include individuals age 55 and older, students of any age, County of Maui employees, individuals with an ADA Paratransit ID, Medicare cardholders, children age 5 and under accompanied by a paying passenger, and physician-certified individuals with a disability fixed-route card. An application is required for individuals seeking a Fare-Free ID based on disability or financial need.

“We encourage residents to reach out even if they are not sure which program is right for them,” said MEO CEO Maggie Batangan. “Our transportation team can help explain the options, answer eligibility questions and guide people toward the service that best fits their needs.”

Residents who have questions about MEO’s transportation services, need assistance identifying the appropriate program or would like to make a reservation can call MEO Transportation at 808-877-7651.