Paratransit or ADA Paratransit is a shared ride service for individuals who are unable (temporarily or permanently) to independently use public transit service due to a disability or health related condition. The service operates curb-to-curb during the same days and hours of the public bus service. This service picks up and drops off riders within 3/4 of a mile of all public bus service. Paratransit is available for all trip purposes and does not prioritize based on purpose. This service is provided in accordance with rules and requirements set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
In order to use paratransit someone must first become eligible. Once eligible a person must only renew every three years. Eligibility for one paratransit system in the Bay Area also results in eligibility on all paratransit service. This allows users to easily navigate the Bay Area just as if they were using regular public transit. Eligibility can take several forms and is not a “yes” or “no” determination. Eligibility can be temporary for cases where a disability is only for a prescribed period of time, like a broken leg. It can also be conditional such as in the case of wet weather causing a mobility device may not function as intended.
Once eligible, riders can schedule trips on a “first come, first served” basis. An unlimited number of trips can be reserved from one day, up to seven days in advance. Riders can request “same day” trips, but these are not always guaranteed due to high demand for the service. The cost per one-way trip is $3.00. Santa Rosa CityBus contracts for its paratransit service with MV Transportation who schedules and provides all rides.