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Valley Metro RPTA Receives Funds to Assist Two Local Programs

Providing travel options can ease demand for paratransit system

PHOENIX (September 28, 2007) – The Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) was awarded funding for two local programs that will benefit seniors and persons with disabilities by enhancing alternatives to the traditional paratransit system. Both programs are intended increase mobility options for individuals and help maximize the travel capacity of the paratransit system overall.

The New Freedom grant program will award a total of $493,000 to the East Valley Partners Alternative Transportation Services program for the development and implementation of a plan to assist Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) certified riders in using alternatives to traditional paratransit service. The program coordinates the distribution and promotion of coupons, vouchers and mileage reimbursements as incentives instead of accessing the paratransit system.

The grant program is also awarding $128,800 to Valley Metro RPTA for the Regional Travel Training Program. The program will include workshops and field trips that can make Seniors and persons with disabilities more comfortable with using the bus.

Both grants were awarded according to an evaluation process lead by the city of Phoenix Public Transit Department through the Federal Transit Administration as the agency addresses the need for new public transportation service targeted at the disabled and provides alternatives that are beyond those required by the ADA.