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.

• 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.

• 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.

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