June 23, 2025

Multi-Generational Mobility That Works

The City of Lathrop partnered with Unified to create a flexible, dual-purpose transportation system that seamlessly serves both seniors and students—boosting independence, safety, and community access through compassionate, on-time service.

June 23, 2025

Organization

City of Lathrop – Dial-A-Ride & School Tripper Program

Location:

Lathrop, CA

Demographics:

32,000+ residents Service for city residents specializing in serving Seniors 60+, Disabled and K–12 Students

About Unified Inc.

At Unified, we are committed to providing safe, reliable, and compassionate non-emergency medical transportation to individuals with special needs, seniors, students, and other community members. Our mission is rooted in the belief that transportation should never be a barrier to care and our drivers are the front-line champions of that mission.

Results

  • 99.7% on-time performance across all services
  • School tripper service tailored to high school start/end times
  • On-demand rides for seniors available during midday hours
  • Reduced family transportation burden
  • Increased senior independence and community participation
  • Real-time GPS tracking and dispatch support

As Lathrop’s population expanded, so did its transit challenges. Seniors needed compassionate, flexible transportation for daily living. Students required safe, reliable rides to and from school. The City of Lathrop turned to Unified for a custom-built, dual-purpose solution that could evolve with the community.

In the mornings and afternoons, Unified runs fixed-route school tripper services, covering key residential and park locations with precision timing to meet school bell schedules.
During midday hours, the same fleet pivots to provide Dial-A-Ride services for seniors, ensuring they can access medical appointments, grocery stores, and social activities without delay.

What sets Unified apart is its flexibility and human-centered approach. Unified doesn’t just stick to a script we adapt to the city’s needs in real time. When a local senior center adjusted its programming hours, Unified immediately updated ride availability. When a new neighborhood opened up, we expanded our tripper routes without hesitation.

“Unified goes beyond the contract,” says Thomas Hedegard, Deputy City Manager. “They listen, adapt, and deliver above expectations. They’ve adjusted routing on short notice, added drivers during peak hours, and even helped individual residents troubleshoot mobility concerns. It’s like having a partner that’s part of our own staff.”

From 24/7 live dispatch to trained drivers who treat every passenger like family, Unified delivers more than transit; we deliver peace of mind.

“Unified turned a logistical headache into a community-strengthening solution. Seniors feel empowered. Students feel safe. And we, as a city, feel proud. Their flexibility and willingness to go the extra mile make all the difference.”

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