Sentinel photo by TYLER RUPERT
A 2012 Chevy Impala, emblazoned with the new service’s name, is positioned to serve as a stand in to draw attention to Electric Avenue motorists until the signage arrives. From left, Lewistown Taxi Service owners Craig Rutherford and wife Jennifer.

LEWISTOWN — Round trip rides, as well as, grocery and restaurant pick-up and delivery are some of the most popular services in demand by the public today. Craig and Jennifer Rutherford seek to accommodate the community and provide these services.

The Lewistown Taxi Service, located on Electric Avenue, will allow crated pets to participate in the ride because the vehicles are non-smoking, sanitized between riders and regulated by the Public Utility Commission. Their mission is to provide safe, reliable and professional transportation services to the residents of Mifflin County.

“We strive to bring about a revitalization to the community by providing the best public transportation option for people on the go,” Rutherford said. “The best part about our business is our employees. We are a family run business with ‘old fashioned’ family values. When you call us, you will usually be interacting with the owners as either a driver or a dispatcher.”

The owners acquired the location on Oct. 1 and currently have a total of 10 employees between the drivers and dispatchers. The fares consist of the initial $2.50 fee and then $1.50 per mile with a 50 cent per minute wait time charge. The service is currently available from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. until 2 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday.

Rutherford said as the business grows, they plan to expand the fleet of vehicles. This will bring more opportunities for employment of Mifflin County residents.

“In the near future we will be offering ‘livery services’ such as airport pick-ups and drop offs,” Rutherford said. “Eventually we will expand to offer winery, brewery and distillery tours.”

The employees seem to enjoy being part of the new venture as well.

“I really like meeting all of the interesting people around town,” said driver Chip Cramer.

“I love it here. They are very nice people to work for,” said dispatcher Candy Royer.

Lewistown Taxi Service can be reached by calling (717) 953-5875.