News & Events
Find out what is happening at the Council on Aging and the various programs and events we support.
Program Highlight:
What is BitterRoot Bus?
BitterRoot Bus was Ravalli County Transit until its name change in January of 2004. BitterRoot Bus is “General Public” Transportation provided to the citizens in Ravalli County. The biggest challenge in educating the public on the local transportation is the misconception that we are strictly for Seniors – that is not so. BitterRoot Bus is for the young, as well as the young at heart. BitterRoot Bus’ biggest goal is to be able to provide transportation to anyone in need of getting where they need or want to go.
When Sharna took over the reins in 2002 ridership was about 150 – 200 rides per month with 2 part-time drivers. Ridership now averages between 700 and 1200 rides per month. BitterRoot Bus now employs 4 part-time and 1 full-time driver with three (3) trips per week to Missoula. BitterRoot Bus is always looking to expand or create new services.
In the future we would like to have the Missoula routes operating at least 5 days a week. Our current focus is expanding BitterRoot Bus services in and around the Stevensville and Florence areas. We were not able to provide local service for this area in the past, only trips to and from Missoula. Expanded services will better meets the needs of area residents as the Bitterroot Valley continues to grow. BitterRoot Bus currently provides service in and around the Darby area on a call-in basis.
Keep in Touch
Would you like to receive updates about our programs and volunteer opportunities? You can sign up for our mailing list for quarterly newsletters, fliers and other information regarding Ravalli County seniors or be added to our email list.