Many small rural transit systems struggle to meet the needs of the elderly, people living with disabilities and general public job access passengers. The smaller the county, the less likely it is to have a formal tax base (such as a transit district) capable of meating its critical mobility needs. As a result, transit dependent populations that could age in place with independence and dignity end up in care facilities at a much larger price tag back to the tax payer.
As Baby Boomers continue to age in completely car dependant rural communities we are losing the capacity to provide services the WWII Generation took for granted. If we don't increase our investments in a meaningful and expeditious way we may find ourselves playing a very expensive game of catch up for 20+ years.