FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



VDA Launches Virginia GrandTrans

New Website Tool Links Seniors with Transportation Options;
Outdoor Advertising Campaign Supports Effort


(Richmond, VA June 19, 2008) - The Virginia Department for the Aging (VDA) announces a new resource to help keep seniors mobile and independent. The new resource, Virginia GrandTrans, is a specially designed website search application created for seniors who no longer drive or who drive very little and for those who care about them. Virginia GrandTrans is part of VDA's Virginia GrandDriver public health initiative and is accessed through www.GrandDriver.net.

"Virginia GrandTrans is a user-friendly resource that helps every Virginian find nearly every transportation option available within the Commonwealth," announces Linda Nablo, Commissioner of the Virginia Department for the Aging. "For those who care for seniors away from home, Virginia GrandTrans helps make it easier to find transportation to and from their physician appointments, the grocery store and pharmacy, and social activities that are all so important for their well being. A feeling of mobility helps us feel independent."

Modeled after the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation resource, VDA's enhanced Virginia GrandTrans application is arranged by region with service providers listed alphabetically within each. A "provider finder" helps those who may not be familiar with Virginia's localities. Search results can be narrowed by type such as public transportation or Rideshare, handicap accessibility, paratransit and Medicaid payment acceptance.

VDA ANNOUNCES "VIRGINIA GRANDTRANS" SEARCH ENGINE
"We are continually updating and maintaining the information available through Virginia GrandTrans and we encourage transportation service providers to visit www.GrandDriver.net and link their own websites to our site. New providers are welcome to submit their information to us to be included in what we hope to be the most comprehensive database of transportation options in the Commonwealth."

Virginia GrandTrans listings are provided as easy-to-use, "one-stop" information sources for the user as opposed to VDA endorsements, Nablo explains. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses are included so that those wishing to arrange transportation can contact providers directly. She urges users to ask questions specific to their individual needs.

The introduction of Virginia GrandTrans coincides with a supporting Virginia GrandDriver outdoor advertising campaign, which launched statewide earlier this week.

For further information about Virginia GrandDriver, which is made possible by The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, or Virginia GrandTrans, visit www.GrandDriver.net.

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