Life and Independence for Today
Shared-Ride for Persons with Disabilities Pilot Project
What is the shared ride for persons with disabilities pilot project?
This program will provide transportation to qualified persons with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Shared-Ride transportation will be provided at a discount rate. The program was developed to evaluate the possibility of establishing a statewide program to serve qualified individuals in rural areas of Pennsylvania..
What counties are included in the program?
Statewide, there are only eight counties participating in the pilot program. Locally Elk, Jefferson, and Clearfield counties are the only counties designated for this program.
When does the program start and how long will it last?
The Shared-Ride for Persons with Disabilities Pilot Program started January 2, 2001 and will run until June 20, 2002. Information gathered over this eighteen month period will be used to determine the feasibility of a permanent statewide program.
Who is eligible?
Any qualified resident of Elk, Jefferson, and Clearfield counties under the age of 65, having a verified disability as defined by the ADA, either temporary or permanent. This program discount does not apply to public fixed route bus service and ADA complimentary paratransit services.
What is the discount I receive?
If eligible, you will receive a 85% discount on the standard shared-ride service fare. You will be responsible to pay 15% of the fare when boarding the transit vehicle.
Where can I go?
You can travel anywhere the shared-ride buses go. You can go to work, go shopping, visit a friend, or do anything you would like to do. Fixed route services are considered to have reasonable fares, so the 85% discount does not apply to these routes. Only shared-ride services currently in operation are eligible for the discount.
Does this program replace any current transportation programs?
NO! The ATA and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will be monitoring all trips to insure that client dumping and shedding does not occur. If you are eligible for Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP), your medical or medical related trips will provide under that program. If you are currently in another transportation program, you are to continue with that program. You may however use the shared-ride pilot program for trips outside of other transportation programs you currently qualify for.
Can someone accompany me on my trip?
Yes, but they may need to pay full fare of the trip. If you need an escort or a personal care attendant to safely assist you when entering or exiting the vehicle, then they may qualify to ride free with you. If you want someone just to come along with you as a companion, they must pay full fare of the trip. ATA does not provide escorts or PCA's. Certified guide and service dogs may travel with you on public transportation vehicle.
How do I sign up for the program?
If you feel that you may qualify and would like to participate in this program, you must complete an eligibility and registration form. These forms are available directly from ATA, LIFT, and other agencies that deal directly with disabled individuals. You will also need to provide written verification that you are a person with a disability. If you do not have written verification we can send you a certificate of disability form to be completed by a professional who is familiar with your situation.
Once I am eligible how do I schedule a trip?
Once you are notified that you are eligible, a photo ID card will be issued or an appointment will be scheduled to produce one. To make a ride reservation you need to call the ATA dispatch office serving your county at least one working day prior to your desired trip. Please inform them you are eligible for the Disabilities Pilot Program. If you have any special travel needs or require that assistance of an escort or PCA, please inform the ATA despatcher at the time you make your ride reservation.
What if I cannot make it to my scheduled ride?
You must contact the ATA dispatch before 9:00 AM the day of the trip, and inform them that you must cancel your ride. If you fail to notify ATA, you will be considered a no-show. The first time this happens you will be given the courtesy of no penalty. the second time you will be required to pay the full fare of the trip before any other ride reservation can be made.
For further information about the Shared-Ride for Persons with Disabilities Pilot Project, please contact LIFT toll free at (800) 341-LIFT (5438) or (814) 781-3050. Or email lift@liftcil.org.
You can also contact:
Area Transportation Authority of North Central
Pennsylvania
44 Transportation Center
Johnsonburg, PA 15845
Phone: (814) 965-2111
Toll free:866-ATA-4YOU (866-282-4968)
http://www.ATATrans.com
Email: ATA@ATATrans.com
*Shared-Ride for Persons with Disabilities Pilot Project is financed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.