CRAWFORDSVILLE — If you do not have a car or cannot drive, some places can feel inaccessible. Crawfordsville hopes to open up its city to everyone with a new way to ride.
Sunshine Vans will become an on-demand ride service for all ages, including Wabash College students. The agency will expand thanks to a grant worth more than $250,000 from the Indiana Department of Transportation.
The service is currently for seniors only. Sunshine Vans driver Bryan Kessinger said he has seen the need for his rides firsthand.
"I've seen these vans around town for years and I didn't really realize the impact they had," said Kessinger, who started driving Sunshine Vans last October. "They can't get to the doctor and they can't get places without us, so I guess we could be considered lifesavers."
Agency director Belinda Young said they realized the need for expanded transit after surveys were conducted in Crawfordsville and with Wabash College students
"We had a lot of younger individuals explaining to us how they would much rather use public transportation because they don't have access to their own private transportation and would rather support this than an Uber or a Lyft," Young said.
The revamped Sunshine Vans will launch in January 2026. It will add two minibuses to the fleet and develop an app so riders of all ages can call a ride without making a literal phone call.
"For the demographic we are looking to serve in addition to the seniors, it is truly instrumental," Young said.
Kessinger said he is eager to pick up passengers, whether they want a ride or need a ride.
"I love it," Kessinger said. "Everybody is interesting. Everybody has their own story, and I like listening to them."
-
Colts to host free electronic recycling event at Lucas Oil Stadium
Residents and businesses looking to safely dispose of unwanted electronics can do so from 8 a.m. to noon on May 16 at the Lucas Oil Stadium South Parking Lot, 500 S. Capitol Ave.
How the Iran war is choking critical aid distribution around the world
The war in Iran is impacting more than just oil prices. Critical aid meant to save lives is also facing constraints. (Scripps News)
4 sentenced in connection with drug trafficking operation in Indianapolis
Four people were sentenced for their involvement in a drug trafficking ring that distributed at least 55 kilograms of cocaine throughout Central Indiana.
U.S. Rep. Carson calls Trumps threats toward Iran reckless, irresponsible
U.S. Representative André Carson called President Donald Trump's threats toward Iran reckless and irresponsible on Tuesday.
