Frederick County is expanding mobility options for older adults and residents with disabilities through a new same-day assisted rideshare partnership
designed to supplement traditional paratransit services.
Since May 26, eligible riders enrolled in the County’s Taxi Access Program (TAP) are able to request “Companion Rides,” an assisted transportation service operated through a partnership between Transit Services of Frederick County, MJM Transportation, and rideshare provider Onward.
The program introduces same-day ride scheduling for eligible residents and provides additional assistance beyond traditional curb-to-curb transportation services. According to Frederick County officials, trained drivers can assist riders with walkers and foldable wheelchairs, help passengers safely enter and exit vehicles, and provide support navigating stairs or other trip hazards.
The service is designed to help residents access:
- healthcare appointments
- social services
- community activities
- essential daily errands
From the county press release:
“This partnership strengthens our commitment to providing additional accessible mobility choices for Frederick County residents,” Jaime McKay, Deputy Director of Transit Services of Frederick County, said in the announcement. “With the addition of Onward’s Companion Rides, we’re ensuring that TAP riders have an additional option to travel safely and independently.”
Frederick County’s Taxi Access Program already provides subsidized transportation for residents registered for Transit-plus, the County’s paratransit system. Officials say the addition of same-day assisted rides adds another layer of flexibility for residents whose transportation needs may not align neatly with traditional scheduling models.
