Today we’d like to introduce you to Omega Hawkins.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Omega. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I am 38 year veteran of the transportation industry. I was instrumental in bringing transportation to Kaufman County in 1980 when I, along with city/county officials recognized the need for elderly transportation to senior centers.
I have worked hard to fill my long term vision for transportation in and around Kaufman County. I along with the board of directors and staff have been very influential in transforming the agency from transportation for the elderly to the full blown public transportation agency it is today.
That vision also called for the expansion into other counties and cities which includes not only Kaufman County but also Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite and Hutchins.
I believe my years of experience have influenced decision making, purpose, and leadership all from the fundamental aspect of helping people through compassion.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Not exactly. Starting out as a small agency, funding was a struggle and continued to be until a few years ago. We are categorized as a rural transit district which means we are able to receive funding from the state and federal government. This afforded us the luxury of providing transportation to municipalities for a low financial commitment. When the 2010 census happened it categorized cities from rural to urban which meant we no longer received as much funding. Our board had to make a decision on how we move forward. They were instrumental in changing the business model to one where cities/counties had to make a larger financial commitment. Understanding the importance of transportation in their communities they all jumped on board. Pardon the pun!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the STAR Transit story. Tell us more about the business.
STAR Transit is a public bus transportation service, offering bus transportation and charter services in Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Mesquite, Balch Springs, Seagoville and Hutchins. Anyone residing in our Service Area may ride STAR Transit. Destinations could include job locations, educational facilities, non-emergency medical appointments, senior centers, and career-training facilities. We can take you to run errands and to visit friends as well. Fares range from $1 – $12 based on the distance of the trip. Due to our recent fare restructure we now offer discounted and/or free fares to seniors, veterans and/or disabled riders.
I am most proud of our expansion and the addition of different types of services to our portfolio. Not only do we offer on demand, curb to curb service in all of our service areas, but we also operate fixed routes in Kaufman, Balch Springs, Seagoville and Hutchins. I am also proud of our relationship with DART. We operate the DART Express bus route 282 (COMPASS) in Mesquite which connects to the DART Lawnview station. We also connect to the DART Buckner Station via the Balch Springs Midtown Express and the Seagoville Express and the DART UNT Station via the Hutchins Shuttle.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t know about luck but I certainly believe in the power of prayer and hard work.
Pricing:
- On Demand, Curb to Curb Fare – $1.00 – $12.00
- Fixed Routes Fare – $1.00 (Free for qualified seniors 60+/veteran/disabled riders)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.STARtransit.org
- Phone: 877-631-5278
- Email: contact@STARtransit.org
- Facebook: STARtransit
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