Transportation options are limited. But in many ways, successful Joblinks projects look quite similar to their urban counterparts. These trips generated significant revenue for the rural area and provided a steady workforce for the plant. But it took an innovative idea to start the buses rolling. Paving the Way Make no mistake, the need for employment transportation initiatives like Joblinks and Bridges to Work is an implied indictment of current national transportation policies.
Effective transportation is a natural partner to employment.
But when the transportation network lags behind the community's needs it becomes as isolated as rural and inner city residents have become. Demonstrations like Joblinks and Bridges to Work can teach valuable lessons. Collaborations with employers, schools and social services agencies are crucial to future success. Two-way communication between community and provider is vital. Perhaps these efforts will pave the way for more thoughtful transportation models in the future.