The Montgomery County Department of Transportation is teaming with taxicab companies operating in the county to provide age 65+ seniors and residents with disabilities free roundtrip transportation to COVID-19 vaccination and testing locations.
According to a press release, the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) reimburses taxi companies for the trips. However, participants have to register by calling Connect-A-Ride and get a free COVID-19 taxi code before booking. In addition, the rider signs a trip voucher at the end of each trip.
The taxicab companies participating in the program include:
- Action Taxi: 301-840-1000
- Anytime Taxi: 301-637-9292
- Regency/Barwood Taxi: 301-990-9000 or 301-984-1900
“It is so important that our seniors and members of our disability community have the means to get vaccinated and COVID-19 tested,” said County Executive Marc Elrich in a statement. “Programs like these are imperative to the county’s fight against the pandemic. Especially now that booster shots are available for seniors 65-and-older who received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Transportation should not be an obstacle to vaccination and testing.”
Before scheduling a trip, riders can call Connect-A-Ride at 301-738-3252 and provide their name, address, phone number, and age to receive a “Free COVID Taxi Code.” Once the rider obtains the code, they can call one of the taxicab companies and schedule a free trip, giving them the COVID Taxi Code along with their trip information.
All riders and drivers must wear face coverings for the duration of their trips as required by the federal masking mandate.
“Taxi companies provide thousands of rides to seniors and the disability community in Montgomery County through the Call-n-Ride program and serve as a vital part of our transportation network,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “This program provides curb to curb service and while its being promoted for COVID-19 vaccination and testing, it can be used for any purpose among eligible community members.”
Graphic courtesy Montgomery County Department of Transportation