Hearings On ADA Paratransit Eligibility Process

Contact:
Susan Tierney
Public Information Officer
602.262.4668
stierney@valleymetro.org

Phoenix, AZ (March 16, 2009)  Residents of Maricopa County are encouraged to offer input on a proposal that would change the current process of determining eligibility for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit certification, which allows access to specific paratransit (Dial-a-Ride) services in the Valley. The intention of ADA paratransit service is to provide access to transportation services for customers who, because of a disability, are prevented from using the fixed route bus system. The ADA requires that paratransit service is offered within three-fourths of a mile of any local, fixed route transit route.

All public hearings, with the exception of the online meeting (webinar), will begin at 5 p.m. with an open house:

• Tues., March 31: Grace United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa, 85213
• Wed., April 1: Glendale Community College, Student Union, 6000 W. Olive Ave., Glendale, 84302
• Mon., April 6: Tempe Transportation Center, 200 E. Fifth Street, 2nd floor, Tempe, 85281
• Tues., April 7: Travis L. Williams Family Service Center, 4732 S. Central Ave., Phoenix, 85040

Comments can also be made by sending an email by April 17 to: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

To download a copy of the presentation, please click here.

The proposal recommends an in-person process for determining ADA paratransit eligibility, coupled with an ADA bus and rail pass, and lifetime certification for some customers. An improved eligibility process will offer equity among applicants and ensure future levels of service offered to those who are truly in need of the transit service. The proposed eligibility process would allow for more personalized and individual service through the assignment of a case manager for each application. Implementation of this program will lay the groundwork for continued improvements to regional ADA paratransit in Maricopa County.

Valley Metro/RPTA provides eco-friendly public transit options to residents of greater Phoenix and Maricopa County, including a clean-fuel bus fleet, low-emissions light rail,  a bio-diesel Dial-a-Ride fleet, online carpool matching and bus trip mapping, and bicycle and telework assistance. Funding is provided by local, state and federal revenues; and administered by a board of 15 governments working to improve and regionalize the public transit system. www.ValleyMetro.org

All service and projects funded by the Proposition 400 Regional Transportation Plan funds approved by Maricopa County voters in November 2004.

 
                                                                        # # #