The recent release of the Missouri Master Plan on Aging underscores the importance of safe, reliable and accessible transportation for all. The plan calls for increased state investment in public transit to ensure access, independence and mobility – particularly at the state’s population continues to age.
The Missouri Master Plan on Aging (MPA) released by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is a 10-year, action-oriented roadmap that brings together public agencies, local organizations, and communities to prepare for the future. The plan outlines a bold and coordinated vision to support the well-being of all Missourians across their lifespan and the action steps to get there. The Master Plan on Aging covers seven key areas of life, each guided by a dedicated subcommittee of citizens, professionals, and experts, to ensure the plan fully reflects the needs of all Missourians as they age. One of those key areas was transportation and mobility.
The plan underscores that while recent efforts have been made to expand transportation services, access remains limited – especially in rural communities. Among its recommendations, the plan emphasizes the need for increased state investment in transportation infrastructure to leverage federal funding. According to the plan, “Strategic investment in public transit, active transportation infrastructure, and mobility services enables Missouri to more fully leverage available federal transportation funds. Prioritizing state funding helps modernize systems, improve access, and reduce long-term costs for older adults and individuals with disabilities.”
Additional recommendations include improved mobility coordination, innovation in flexible transit options and programs to assist with vehicle and driver shortages.
“As we continue to see the aging of Missouri, public transit becomes more and more important to maintain access and independence in every area of this state. This study underscores the importance of state investment in transit and mobility coordination to ensure the best access possible especially in the rural areas. In addition, our recent Transit Needs Assessment Study highlighted the fact that demand for transit trips continues to grow, while the cost of delivering those trips is escalating at a much faster rate. The restoration of the $5 million cut in General Revenue in 2025 is more important than ever as we look to meeting the current and future needs of our aging populations,” said Kimberly Cella, executive Director of the Missouri Public Transit Association.
For the complete report: Aging With Dignity Missouri’s Master Plan on Aging