‘It’s just gonna be a complete disaster’: Hanover DASH riders face uncertainty as federal shutdown threatens funding

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — More than a thousand Hanover residents who rely on the county’s DASH transportation service could soon be left without a ride.

Starting Dec. 1, Hanover County says it may have to temporarily suspend its DASH program if the federal government shutdown continues, or if funding delays persist even after the shutdown ends. Hanover DASH provides transportation to older adults and those with disabilities.

For Eric Hutson, who lives with cerebral palsy, that possibility is devastating.

“It’s an excellent service,” Hutson said. “I can be assured that somebody is going to be there to help me. And now, I don’t know... that assurance isn’t there anymore.”

Hutson works a hybrid job and depends on DASH for transportation on the days he needs to get to the office. He’s one of 1,200 registered riders who received a letter from the county warning that the service could be paused next month because most of its funding comes from federal and state sources now frozen by the shutdown.

According to Hanover County, about 400 riders actively use DASH for transportation to essential destinations. The county is using about $90,000 in local funds approved by the Board of Supervisors, to keep the service running through November. However, that funding won’t be sustainable beyond this month if federal dollars don’t resume in time.

Hutson said the uncertainty is taking an emotional toll.

“I finally found a way to manage interacting with my friends, [and] going to appointments without bothering my family too much,” he said. “And now we’re back to ground zero all over again.”

Hanover leaders said they’re monitoring the situation closely and will restart DASH services as soon as federal funding is restored. In the meantime, they’re encouraging riders to plan ahead and limit rides to essential needs.

“Everyone deserves to be represented and given equal access,” Hutson said. “Hanover County should be applauded for keeping this program going, but lawmakers and the rest of the federal government need to help their people.”

The county has published a list of alternative transportation options for residents who may be affected if the service is paused. You can find those options here.