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Maine Policy MattersAuthor: Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center
The Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center is a nonpartisan, independent research and public service unit of the University of Maine (UMaine). Language: en Genres: Government, News, Politics Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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S9E4 Connecting Maine: The Future of Rural Transit & Community Resilience
Episode 4
Wednesday, 29 July, 2026
Episode Overview In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Grant, Lisa Smith, and Katherine Freund to discuss the critical challenges and innovative, community-driven solutions shaping transportation resilience, volunteer driver programs, and the future of mobility in rural Maine. Guest Bios Jennifer Grant – Director of the Bureau of Planning at the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT). She has been with MaineDOT for 10 years and in her current role for two years. Lisa Smith – Interim Executive Director and Mobility Manager at the Aroostook County Transportation System (ARTS). A lifelong resident of Aroostook County, Lisa brings over 10 years of experience working with non-profit organizations and nearly five years with ARTS. Katherine Freund – President & CEO of the Independent Transportation Network of America (ITNAmerica), located in Westbrook, Maine. She is an internationally recognized pioneer in senior and rural mobility policy and practice. Resources MaineDOT Public Transit Program – The division within MaineDOT directed by Jennifer Grant, managing federal grants, statewide transit compliance, regional bus service networks, and strategic policy implementation across Maine. Public Transit Advisory Council (PTAC) – A statutory advisory body hosted administratively by MaineDOT that collaborates with state planners and transit leaders to advise the Governor and Legislature on public transit services, funding transparency, and statewide coordination. Aroostook Regional Transportation System (ARTS) – The primary rural transit provider in Aroostook County, leading demand-response services, non-emergency medical rides, and community transit routes. Moving Maine Network – A statewide multi-sector coalition focusing on overcoming rural geographic barriers, promoting mobility equity, and improving cross-agency transportation coordination. ITNAmerica – The national nonprofit network founded by Katherine Freund to provide consumer-oriented, dignified transportation for older adults and individuals with visual impairments. ITNCountry – A specialized technology and support platform designed by ITNAmerica to empower small, rural communities to build and manage their own volunteer-driver networks. Rides in Sight – A free national searchable clearinghouse and hotline created by ITNAmerica to connect rural residents, older adults, and caregivers with local transportation options. Support Us Donate to Maine Policy Review: https://mcspolicycenter.umaine.edu/donate-to-maine-policy-review/ Visit our Website: https://mcspolicycenter.umaine.edu/maine-policy-matters/ Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/umainepolicycenter/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/umainepolicy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcs.policy.center/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/umainepolicy Transcript https://mcspolicycenter.umaine.edu/2026/07/29/s9e4-connecting-maine-the-future-of-rural-transit-community-resilience/
