Nampa, ID

Nampa, ID, is a suburb located 20 miles west of Boise. One of the Nampa mayor’s goals is to improve movement in and through Nampa. When it comes to public transportation, this is no small challenge as the Idaho Legislature mandates that transportation funding in the state is “for the primary benefit of motorized vehicles,” implying a focus on privately owned cars.

Mpact convened a focus group style listening session involving older adults, public transportation professionals and direct service providers to talk about transportation options for older adults in Nampa. The session focused on identifying the public transit options available, the level of awareness that older adults have about those options, their comfort level using the options, and any related gaps. This convening further illuminated the high level of dependence on cars yet also allowed direct service providers and transit outreach staff to connect and strategize. They agreed to schedule opportunities for older adults at the senior center to learn more about public transportation options in the area and how to navigate.