HOULTON, Maine – The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians took ownership of three 2023 Chevrolet Traverse sport utility vehicles Thursday, April 27, to aid tribal citizens getting to appointments.
The three vehicles – purchased from Carroll’s Auto Sales in Presque Isle – were secured thanks to a grant from the Federal Transit Administration. As part of the grant requirement, the vehicles had to have a majority of their components made in America.
The FTA provides financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems, including buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, trolleys and ferries. FTA also oversees safety measures and helps develop next-generation technology research.
ean Conlogue, right, of Carroll’s Auto Sales in Presque Isle, hands over the keys to three new Chevrolet Traverse sport utility vehicles to Clarissa Sabattis, tribal chief for the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians on April 27. The vehicles will be used to transport tribal citizens to medical and job-related appointments.
(Contributed photo)
Because public transportation options are limited in southern Aroostook County, HBMI officials opted instead to acquire these vehicles to assist its community.
The seven-passenger vehicles will be used by the tribe’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Behavioral Services as well as the tribe’s Health Departments to provide residents with transportation to appointments both in the greater Houlton community, as well as downstate.
“We are pleased to provide this service to our tribal community and will continue to explore ways to improve services for our members,” HBMI Tribal Chief Clarissa Sabattis said.
