HADLEY — A van that transports senior citizens on shopping and medical trips, mostly along the Route 9 corridor, is changing from an on-demand system to one with a fixed route on the three days it operates.
Containing a wheelchair lift, the van, operated by the Hadley Senior Center, starts at the Golden Court housing complex and travels to the shopping plazas and malls on the south side of Route 9. After heading to Greenleaves Apartments, the van returns to Golden Court after stopping at shopping plazas on the north side of Route 9 and Mountain View Apartments.
Only three passengers are allowed at a time, and the driver and passengers wear masks at all times. A disinfection system is in place.
The van departs Golden Court Mondays and Fridays at 9:15 a.m., 10:20 a.m. and 11:25 a.m., with a final run at 12:30 to bring home anyone who is still shopping. On Wednesdays, the van departs Golden Court at 9:15 a.m. and 10:20 a.m., with a final run at 11:25 to bring home shoppers.
Fares are $2 for a round trip, while companions for disabled passengers ride for free. Passengers who require rides to destinations a maximum of three-quarters of a mile off the fixed route can be accommodated with advance scheduling. Stops at medical offices on and close to the route can be scheduled ahead.