June Newsletter
2026 DTA Annual Award Essay entry
by Leah McCarthy, Administrative Assistant

Benson County Transportation is writing a new chapter in mobility for north-central North Dakota.
Since taking the reins in January 2026, the Maddock-based team has focused on one clear promise: safe, reliable rides that connect people to the places and services that matter most. That promise is resonating—ridership has reached record levels, a testament to both community trust and the organization’s day-to-day excellence. Within four short months, Benson County Transportation has tripled its ridership!
Based on statistical data and testimonials there were those who previously could not secure rides. All that has changed.
At the heart of this success is a cohesive, professional staff. Four highly trained drivers anchor daily operations, bringing a steady hand, calm judgment, and a safety-first mindset to every mile. Around them stands a well-rounded support team that keeps the wheels turning and the phones ringing with satisfied customers: a marketing manager who grows awareness across Benson County and beyond; a website designer who streamlines trip information and access; a maintenance engineer who keeps vehicles in peak condition; an administrative assistant who ensures smooth scheduling and responsive communication; and an executive director who aligns people, resources, and vision. Together, they form a culture defined by diligence, accountability, and care for riders.
The reach of Benson County Transportation reflects the region’s real-world needs. Medical appointments don’t always happen close to home, so the service stretches confidently across the map—from Devils Lake, Rugby, and Harvey to larger hubs like Grand Forks, Minot, and Bismarck.
This breadth gives clients peace of mind: when a specialist is hours away, transportation won’t be the barrier. Just as important are the everyday trips that uplift quality of life—riders heading out to shop, visiting family for a birthday, or simply enjoying a social outing. These rides knit together the social fabric of rural communities, preventing isolation and making daily living easier, gentler, and more connected.
Safety is the throughline. Vehicles are maintained proactively; drivers practice defensive driving and attentive passenger care; and the office team communicates clearly so riders know what to expect. That attention shows up in the feedback that arrives every day—compliments about punctuality, courtesy, clean vehicles, and the reassuring professionalism of staff.
For many riders, a trip with Benson County Transportation is more than logistics; it’s a friendly face at the curb, help with a bag, and a trusted companion on the road.
Record ridership isn’t just a statistic—it’s a signal that Benson County Transportation has become a dependable partner for healthcare access, family ties, and daily essentials.
With a capable team in Maddock and service lines radiating across the region, the organization is proving that rural mobility can be both practical and personal. Each trip begins with a commitment to safety and ends with a rider who feels valued.
In between lies the careful coordination, craft, and heart that define Benson County Transportation today.
