Rolling Hills Transit (RHT), a program of the non-profit organization Semcac, is an important public bus service supporting the independence and well-being of seniors in Fillmore and Houston counties and the surrounding counties of Dodge, Olmsted and Winona counties. By providing reliable and consistent transportation, RHT helps older adults remain connected to their communities and maintain access to essential services.
“Public transit is a lifeline for seniors, offering independence, connection, and access to essential services. It’s more than transportation – it’s a key to staying active, engaged, and part of the community,” explains Bill Spitzer, director of transportation. “Our service helps seniors overcome transportation barriers … nearly 2,000 seniors have used Rolling Hills Transit this year.”
In 2023, RHT celebrated 10 years of providing reliable and consistent transportation service. RHT offers curb-to-curb transportation to and from personal residences, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other senior housing. The service is open to anyone, for any reason, whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, a trip to the pharmacy, shopping at the grocery store, a visit to the local library, a stop at city hall, or even a haircut at your favorite hair salon or barbershop.
RHT reports that there were 4,900 Houston County riders in 2023. As of November 2024, that number has already reached 4,959 passengers, making Houston County the program’s second busiest route. In 2023, the popular service averaged 22.75 rides per day. The total 2024 year-to-date ridership number for Fillmore County is 7,837. Spitzer explained that Chatfield numbers (which are included in Fillmore numbers) may have Olmsted County ridership as well.
The need for public transportation for seniors in rural areas continues to grow. According to USAFacts.org, Fillmore County had a population of 21,414 in 2022, with seniors 65 and older making up 22.2% of the total, a significant increase from 2010. Meanwhile, Houston County’s population in 2022 stood at 18,800, a slight decline of 1.2% from the 19,027 people who lived there in 2010. However, the senior population in Houston County grew by 31.3% during the same period, making older adults the fastest-growing demographic in both counties.
Part-time bus driver Gary Friedman, a Spring Grove resident, has been with RHT for seven years. Driving one day a week, he enjoys the experience and the opportunity to get to know the passengers.
RHT’s buses are operated by drivers who hold a Class B license and are trained in CPR and how to safely operate the wheelchairs and safety equipment. All buses are handicap accessible, equipped with wheelchair lifts, and include seatbelts.
Friedman added that they cannot cross state lines, so riders wanting to go to La Crosse, Wis., take the RHT to Quillin’s in La Crescent, Minn., and take the Apple Express to La Crosse.
Affordable fares make the service accessible to all:
• Local rides: $2 one way for in-town trips (where buses are located) and $2 round trip to Semcac Senior Dining.
• Out of town rides: $4 one way, within eight miles (or community to community) and $6 one-way for distances beyond eight miles from any area (effective September 8, 2024).
The buses operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with 24-hour advance reservations recommended. To book a ride, contact Rolling Hills Transit at 1-800-528-7622 or 507-634-4340. The TTY/TDD number is 800-627-3529. Reservations can be made Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is no bus service on Saturday or Sunday.
For up-to-date information, visit Rhtbus@semcac.org or pick up a rack card (available in English and Spanish). For questions, email RHT at rhtbus@semcac.org.
Rolling Hills Transit continues to play a crucial role in Fillmore and Houston counties, ensuring that seniors maintain their independence and access to vital services. By fostering community connections and enhancing mobility, RHT contributes significantly to the quality of life for seniors in southeastern Minnesota.
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