Monthly field trips are back on the agenda for Maricopa’s golden oldies.
After the city silently axed the program nearly two years ago, a group of local seniors are teaming with Ride347 to bring the day trips back next month.
Hidden Valley resident Harriet Phelps is one member of the committee who was disappointed when the original program “just kind of fell to the wayside.”
“I was one of those seniors who attended those trips, and it was just so much fun to pay a minimal price and travel into the city,” she said.
Past trips not only enabled seniors to travel to places like Sabino Canyon and the Desert Botanical Garden, but also offered a chance to socialize.
“A lot of people enjoyed those trips,” Phelps said. “Some of my peers, they don’t drive at night and some simply don’t drive anymore. This gives them an opportunity for social time together and to go on outings they may not be able to attend.”
The inaugural trip will take place Wednesday, Sep. 18 to the Cheesecake Factory at Chandler Fashion Square. The shuttle will pick up registered attendees from Copper Sky Recreation Complex at 4 p.m.
“We’ll have an early dinner, and everyone will have until about 8 p.m. to shop in the mall,” she said.
Councilmember Bob Marsh also serves on the committee and said he’s excited to help bring the option back to “make senior living in Maricopa great again.”
“I’ve been hearing requests for a return of the senior day trips,” he said. “Seniors really enjoy the opportunity to get out of town and experience the great events, natural wonders and places to love all around our state within day-trip range.”
While the group has some ideas percolating for future trips, Marsh said he’s open to hearing suggestions.
“I’d like to get a top ten list of destinations from readers,” he said.
Registration is required and limited to Maricopa seniors aged 62 and older. A non-refundable payment of $15 for the ride is due upon making the reservation. Dinner is not included in the ticket price.
Information on future trips can be found on the Maricopa Senior Living website.
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