What is ADA Paratransit? 


Learning Objective. In this section, we will learn how to define ADA Paratransit. 


To understand ADA Paratransit, we need to understand fixed-route transit first Fixed-route transit systems operate on a set route and follow a fixed schedule. A city bus is an example of fixed-route transit.


When a rider’s needs cannot be met by the fixed-route system, 42 U.S. Code, Section 121143 requires the public transit agency provide an alternate, accessible service. This service is known as ADA Paratransit. Where a public fixed-route system is available, ADA Paratransit is offered as an accessible alternative. 


ADA Paratransit Requirements: 
* Service area must be the same as fixed-route service
* Hours of service must be the same as fixed-route service
* Fares cannot exceed twice the fixed-route passenger fare
* Reservation systems should allow for next-day service
* Restrictions may not be placed on trip purpose


Riders are eligible for ADA Paratransit if they cannot independently use all or portions of the fixed-route service, even if they would be able to use the fixed-route system with the help of a friend or personal attendant.


ADA Paratransit is an extension of a community’s fixed-route bus system. Like the fixed-route system, ADA Paratransit is available for all purposes of travel: business, personal, and leisure. 
 
Eligibility for ADA Paratransit may not be limited to categories of trips. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) found that providing ADA Paratransit only for certain types of trips, such as dialysis, was in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act


Let’s look at an example of ADA Paratransit. Susan uses ADA Paratransit to travel to the grocery store, to physical therapy appointments, and to volunteer in the community. Susan budgets for paratransit fare each month is her household budget.


Learning Stop


Which of the following statements are true about ADA Paratransit?
1. ADA Paratransit is a service that corresponds to the fixed-route bus system provided in a city. 
2. Individuals are eligible for ADA Paratransit service if they cannot independently use all or portions of the fixed-route service. 
3. ADA Paratransit may be used to travel to work, to health care appointments, and to recreational activities. 
4. All of the above. 
The correct answer is D. All of the above. ADA Paratransit is a service that corresponds to the fixed-route bus system provided in a city, individuals are eligible for ADA Paratransit service if they cannot independently use all or portions of the fixed-route service, and ADA Paratransit may be used to travel to work, to health care appointments, and to recreational activities.


This concludes Section 1 of ADA Paratransit: What is Paratransit?