Known throughout the world as a uniquely “young” city, Lakewood Township’s senior population has grown steadily in recent years as well. In particular, a cluster of beautiful senior community developments (restricted to residents aged 55 and up) has attracted thousands of seniors from communities outside Lakewood who made the move of their lives to greener pastures, near family and friends.
But how do these seniors get around town? While virtually of Lakewood’s younger adults drive their own cars, some one-quarter of seniors do not drive and/or have vehicles of their own. Even a simple trip to the grocery store can be a headache, requiring costly taxis or the hassle of arranging rides.
On Tuesday, July 30th, a true breakthrough took place. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the Enclave senior community clubhouse for the first-ever “Ocean Ride” bus route from the Enclave and nearby Fairways communities to various popular points of interest.
The bus will run every Tuesday – round trip – to Gourmet Glatt, Aisle 9, Amazing Savings, Walmart and Periwinkle Women’s Clothing.
Under bright blue skies, a crowd of seniors greeted the bus with smiles and the common sentiment that their daily lives have just turned even better.
An honorary delegation of elected officials and community activists were in attendance, joining together to see the fruits of their years-long labor.
Among the dignitaries were Lakewood Mayor Ray Coles; Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller; Township Committee Members Meir Lichtenstein and Deborah Fuentes; Assemblyman Avi Schnall; Ocean County Commissioners Gary Quinn and Frank Sadeghi; and Ocean County Director of Transportation David Fitzgerald.
Two community activists were highlighted for their especially instrumental roles in bringing this project to fruition: Rabbi Lipa Klein of the CARES Council and Mrs. Dvora Hertz of Lakewood Township social services and The Square senior center.
“It is truly emotional to see the bus here today,” said Rabbi Klein, thanking Township and County officials for their partnership in this project.
“This is the result of a partnership between the County and Township – one of many,” said Commissioner Quinn. “We see that the community is growing rapidly and we want to be there for them.”
Mrs. Hertz shared the enormously positive feedback she hears from seniors regarding the new route and stressed that this is merely the beginning. Additional routes and additional days-a-week on this route are in store for the future.
The ribbon was cut. Passengers boarded the bus. And off it went. As an added bonus, the $1 bus fare was waived for the inaugural ride.
Why is the bus not servicing A Country Place Community? The oldest one in Lakewood?