EPHRATA — The Grant County Coalition for Health Improvement is set to host an event, “Paving the Way: Community Solutions for Transportation Access,” on Nov. 18.  

This initiative is part of the CHI series, aimed at addressing pressing community issues through public engagement and collaborative efforts. 

Kicking off at noon with a networking lunch at the new Grant Transit Authority Transit Center in Ephrata, the event will feature presentations from local public transit providers, including GTA, People for People and Special Mobility Services.  

Attendees will gain insights into the current transportation services and future plans designed to enhance access throughout Grant County. 

Rhyanne Berryman, the Director of Business Retention and Expansion and CHI Facilitator at the Grant County Economic Development Council, emphasized the importance of this event in fostering community dialogue.  

“The main goal is to bring folks together around community issues,” Berryman said. “Transportation plays such a critical role in many aspects of health and well-being. While other issues like food insecurity and behavioral health often garner more attention, transportation remains a foundational element affecting them.” 

The CHI has been actively collaborating with the health district to craft a comprehensive Community Health Improvement Plan. Berryman noted that while focus groups have contributed to this initiative, many voices in the community feel unheard.  

“We recognize that there are lots of folks affected by these issues who weren’t necessarily part of the focus groups,” she said. “We created this event to provide a platform where these community members can come together and formulate grassroots solutions.” 

The need for awareness regarding transportation access is crucial, according to Berryman.  

“When it comes to community issues, it’s important to understand what’s happening and why these issues are pressing. Transportation impacts everything else,” she said.  

By bringing together transit providers and community members, the event aims to bridge informational gaps and inspire solutions through collective discussion.

Berryman also highlighted the unique opportunity for networking that the event provides.  

“We didn’t want to duplicate efforts already in place; there’s a lot of fantastic work being done across the county,” she said. “Our role is to facilitate a space where individuals can share ideas and collaborate to keep the momentum going after the event concludes.” 

All community stakeholders are invited, including nonprofit organizations, grassroots groups, service providers, change-makers, and even representatives from local municipalities and government agencies.  

“We believe this event could spark valuable collaborations across sectors,” Berryman said. “By connecting people who focus on health and well-being as well as those in related fields, we can deepen our discussions and enhance our solutions.” 

The event is designed to be accessible to all community members, with materials available in both English and Spanish.  

“We recognize that inclusivity is vital,” Berryman said. “Should the need arise, we can arrange for Spanish translation based on pre-registrations, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate.” 

For Berryman, fostering community engagement is not merely a function of the CHI but rather a passionate mission.  

Berryman said she would like to remind the public of the importance of attendance. 

“This is an open invitation for all. Whether you’re a service provider, a community member, or someone working in local government — everyone’s input is valuable,” she said.  

Paving the Way: Community Solutions for Transportation Access 

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025 

Noon to 3 p.m. 

New Grant Transit Authority Transit Center 

548 Basin St. SW, Ephrata 

Register here: bit.ly/PavingTheWay1118