Frederick County expands assisted rides for TAP riders

Transit Services of Frederick County, MJM Innovations and Onward are adding same-day Companion Rides for Taxi Access Program riders in Maryland. The expansion gives older adults and people with disabilities another subsidized option for trips to healthcare, errands and community activities.

Why it matters: - Frederick County TAP riders now have a same-day assisted rideshare option designed for older adults and people with disabilities. - The new service adds hands-on mobility support to the county’s subsidized transportation mix. - The program is meant to widen access to healthcare, social services, community activities and essential daily needs. - Onward said the launch marks its first operating footprint on the East Coast.

What happened: - Onward announced a partnership with MJM Innovations and Transit Services of Frederick County on July 14, 2026. - The partnership introduces Companion Rides, Onward’s assisted rideshare service, for residents enrolled in the county’s Taxi Access Program. - Eligible riders can request a ride by calling 1-800-940-6564 during operating hours or by texting “Book” to 301-835-2226 after hours. - Companion Rides are a same-day service operated by trained Companion Drivers.

The details: - Companion Drivers receive training to become FTA, CMS and PACE certified. - Onward prepares drivers to help riders get in and out of vehicles safely. - Drivers can assist with foldable wheelchairs and walkers. - Drivers can help riders navigate stairs and trip hazards. - The service supplements traditional curb-to-curb transportation. - TAP is administered by MJM Innovations for County residents who are registered for Transit-plus, Transit Services of Frederick County’s paratransit service. - Riders continue to receive TAP subsidies toward trip costs. - Trips can include wait-and-return options for medical visits and essential errands. - Transit Services of Frederick County said the added option strengthens accessible mobility choices for county residents. - MJM Innovations said the role of the partnership is to ensure TAP riders can choose the service that fits their needs. - Onward said the expansion supports its goal of improving community health through rides, visits and outings.

Between the lines: - The launch blends public transit subsidies with a more hands-on private mobility service, which could help riders who need more than a standard curb-to-curb trip. - The East Coast entry gives Onward a new geographic base and could position the company for more transit partnerships in the region. - The service appears aimed at filling a gap between paratransit and fully assisted transportation.

What's next: - Eligible TAP riders can begin using the Companion Rides booking channels now. - The county, MJM Innovations and Onward will likely monitor demand and rider uptake as the service scales. - Future expansion will depend on how well the assisted rides model fits TAP riders’ needs.

The bottom line: - Frederick County is broadening its transportation options with a same-day assisted rideshare service that adds support, flexibility and a new layer of access for TAP riders.