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Volunteer pensioners get Grambow moving: new on-call bus system!
Grambow is starting a volunteer on-call bus project with retired drivers to improve public transport and save costs.
Volunteer pensioners get Grambow moving: new on-call bus system!
A pilot project in the on-call bus system has recently been implemented in the municipality of Grambow near Schwerin. How NDR reported that four volunteer pensioners have agreed to take on the trips. Mayor Sven Baltrusch from the CDU emphasizes that every citizen has the opportunity to get involved in this project. A requirement for drivers is a transport license, which they must possess.
In addition, the on-call bus helpers receive an expense allowance from local bus, such as local bus explained. Silke Fischer, spokeswoman for the company, notes that neighbors behind the wheel can significantly increase the acceptance of local public transport (ÖPNV). Not only does this benefit the community, but it also saves money. Mayor Baltrusch makes it clear: “If the district saves, Grambow also saves.”
Deployment and expansion of the project
Drivers' operations are currently limited to 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, the long-term plan is to employ the volunteers full-time. This offer could mean that operation by a local bus subcontractor during off-peak times becomes unnecessary.
The on-call bus system is part of a larger mobility offensive in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which is scheduled to start nationwide on March 1, 2024 Government MV. The aim is to build a nationwide on-call bus system with uniform quality standards. A total of 33 on-call bus lines will be set up, which will operate from Monday to Saturday between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. However, if you want to use a call bus, you must order it at least one hour in advance.
Financial support
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has provided total funding of 13.5 million euros for 2024 to set up the on-call bus system. Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig has handed over a grant amounting to around 1.45 million euros. 13 million euros have already been made available for the development of these systems in 2023, and financing for the following years has also been secured.
With the introduction of the on-demand bus system and the committed support of volunteer drivers, the municipality of Grambow not only shows that it has a good hand for the mobility of its citizens, but also how volunteer commitment contributes positively to the quality of life in the region.