The Norfolk Community Bus is now up and running. The bus, which is airy and comfortable, is available for people who need a ride for medical appointments, shopping and other social and personal reasons. People with medical needs are accommodated first. The bus seats 12 people with room for two wheelchairs (there is a lift).

The bus service can be used by groups as well as individuals. The first group trip, on Jan. 11, took a group from the Congregational Church to a UConn women’s basketball game in Hartford. In the picture above, driver Martha McLellan (the other regular driver is Peter O’Brien) is about to take her passengers to a robotics competition in Wolcott.

You can call 860-542-5829 to schedule a ride. There is no charge, but a suggested donation of $2 per person is appreciated. For group social excursions, the suggested donation is $0.55 per mile and $18 per hour for the drive. The schedule is Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays are reserved for long-distance appointments, and Monday and Friday for shopping, Appointments should be made 24 hours in advance, and the earlier you make an appointment the better, since the service operates on a first come, first served basis. More detailed information on the Norfolk Community Bus, and on other transportation options available in the Northwest Corner, can be found on the town website.