Black & White Transportation is a transportation network company (TNC) based in Toledo, Ohio. Having been locally owned for over 75 years, it operates the largest fleet of sedans, minivans, and wheelchair accessible vehicles in northwest Ohio. This article is from an interview with Clark Gross, Chief Operating Officer, and Jenn Schact, Director, Community Engagement, for Black & White Transportation.
Black & White Transportation's approach to fleet maintenance and replacement has evolved in tandem with the company. In 2012, its name changed from Black & White Taxi & Cab Company to Black & White Transportation. The purpose of rebranding was to reflect a deeper commitment to serving riders who rely on transportation for assorted reasons. This commitment to being more than a taxicab service is instrumental in how Black & White's fleet is maintained.
Presently, Black & White Transportation uses a cloud-based fleet management system called Fleetio. Fleetio collects, tracks, and analyzes relevant fleet data like mileage trends, repair histories, operating costs, downtime, and inspection patterns. This data guides decision-making about when to maintain, rehabilitate, or replace a unit. By having visibility into the full lifecycle of every vehicle, Black & White can provide safer and more reliable services for riders.
Regarding replacement decisions, these depend on rider needs. Black & White maintains a mix of sedans, accessible vans, shuttles, and paratransit vehicles to reflect the diverse needs of the Toledo community. When new shuttles and accessible vehicles from TESCO enter the fleet, Black & White knows it's investing in equipment with the best accessibility features available.
It's a balancing act that requires intention. Although operating 24/7 for decades, the non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and shuttle transportation divisions expanded, and it became clear that a one-size-fits-all model would not work.
So, Black & White Transportation built separate operational structures with shared values. The TNC division keeps Toledo moving at all hours, while NEMT focuses on scheduling precision and lead-time planning. These riders depend on Black & White for traveling to medical appointments, work, therapy, and daily independence.
Pictured: Clark Gross (left) and Jenn Schact (right). Photo taken at Black & White Transportation's offices in Toledo, Ohio.
Every time services expand, someone's world also expands. By growing beyond traditional ride service into shuttle, paratransit, senior transportation, and NEMT services, more riders maintain independence, access healthcare, take part in family events, and stay engaged in community life. Reliable transportation is often the missing link between someone's needs and their opportunities.
Training was the biggest and most important challenge. When you introduce accessible vehicles with lifts, ramps, and securement systems, you owe it to your riders and drivers to do it right. Black & White has in-house trainers whose training programs give drivers confidence to help passengers travel with dignity. Ultimately, integrating new vehicles is about integrating new capabilities, which requires care.
Every ride is memorable for the person receiving it, whether it's realized or not.
"We've taken grandparents in wheelchairs to their granddaughter's wedding, and you can feel the joy ripple through the whole vehicle. We transport a client with a developmental disability to his job, a ride that means independence, pride, and belonging. We've taken riders to chemotherapy, where getting there and back safely and comfortably is its own form of support." – Clark Gross, Chief Operating Officer
Black & White Transportation does hundreds of these rides each day, and having the right vehicle makes these rides possible.
To Black & White Transportation, serving the community means showing up for the people, with respect and reliability. It's not about the miles; it's about the moments. It's about helping someone arrive at appointments, work, family celebrations, or out into the world.
The company's fleet decisions reflect that responsibility by investing in accessible vehicles, safety features, and specialized equipment. When choosing a TESCO vehicle with the latest accessibility features, the decision comes down to creating a better experience for riders. To Black & White, serving the community means using every tool it has, including its fleet, to lift people up.
Black & White Transportation is the only company in Ohio that is NEMTAC-accredited. With this industry accreditation, the company can go above and beyond. For example, Black & White has equipment like an alternative stretcher that is used during X-rays, can fit through a standard door, and is heat-activated.
These features are the difference between transportation and access.
On accessibility, wheelchair lifts aren't only a mechanical platform; they mean independence. A ramp isn't only a slope of metal, it's dignity. The accessible features built into vehicles give riders safety and predictability, which are non-negotiable when transporting seniors, people with disabilities, and those with medical needs.
Better features lead to better outcomes, such as smoother loading, safer securement, more comfortable rides, and less stress. With innovative partners like TESCO, Black & White can offer a service experience that grows right along with the needs of the community.
TESCO Bus & Van Sales offers a wide range of new and used buses and vans, including wheelchair accessible vehicles, available for nationwide delivery. Call us at 800.227.3572 to speak with a sales representative or fill out an information request form to have an associate contact you. We look forward to helping you find the perfect vehicle for your community's needs!