Rockbridge Area Transportation System

Rockbridge Area Transportation System (RATS) provides safe and affordable rides
to residents of Alleghany and Rockbridge Counties. 

Medicaid and VA benefits cover some of the costs for rides. Otherwise, we operate on a sliding fee scale based on income, so that everyone can afford to get to medical appointments, pharmacies, and grocery stores.

RATS was founded in 1995 by Joan Manley, who was paralyzed from the chest down in her early 30s. Joan was passionate that everyone be able to live as independently as possible and with dignity, as she wanted for herself. To that end, she started RATS at her kitchen table to help residents access the transportation to get to medical appointments, jobs, grocery stores, and more. 

Driven by Joan's determination, RATS has grown to serve any area resident who needs transportation through our paid staff of drivers, schedulers, and administrators using a fleet of 12 wheelchair accessible vans and 3 cars.

Our drivers are trained and certified Passenger Service and Safety (PASS) professionals, who are equipped to handle and secure wheelchairs in each van. Riders' safety is the priority of every trip. Fares are kept low with the help of generous donors, allowing us to serve uninsured riders on a sliding fee scale based on income. Please consider supporting our program during Give Local Alleghany Highlands so that we can continue providing area residents with rides to doctor’s appointments and lifesaving treatments, such a dialysis. 

Joan Manley: Founder of RATS