Navigating public transportation can present unique challenges for individuals with disabilities. Recognizing this, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is committed to providing accessible and reliable transportation options for everyone in our community. One key service in this commitment is Sts Transportation, also known as Special Transportation Service. This dedicated paratransit service ensures that individuals who cannot utilize the standard fixed-route bus system due to a disability can still access essential transportation. Operating in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), STS Transportation offers a vital lifeline for eligible residents and visitors in Charlotte, North Carolina. This guide will explain everything you need to know about STS Transportation, from eligibility and service areas to application processes and how to schedule your ride.
Understanding STS – Special Transportation Service
STS, or Special Transportation Service, is a paratransit service provided by CATS for individuals with disabilities that prevent them from using fixed-route buses. This service is mandated by the ADA, ensuring equal access to public transportation for people with disabilities. According to federal regulations outlined in 49 CFR Section 37.123, STS is designed as a complementary paratransit service for those whose disabilities – whether physical, cognitive, or visual – create barriers to using standard buses.
STS operates as a pre-scheduled, shared-ride, origin-to-destination service. This means that riders must book their trips in advance, and they may be sharing the vehicle with other passengers. The service picks up passengers at their requested origin and takes them directly to their destination within the designated service area. This personalized approach ensures that transportation is accessible and convenient for individuals who require more support than fixed-route buses can offer.
Who is Eligible for STS Transportation?
Eligibility for STS Transportation is determined by CATS based on the guidelines set forth by the ADA. To be eligible, individuals must have a disability that prevents them from independently using the fixed-route bus system. This assessment considers several factors related to a person’s ability to navigate public transportation.
CATS evaluates eligibility based on three primary factors:
- Ability to reach and return from a bus stop: If a disability prevents an individual from traveling to or from a bus stop, they may be eligible for STS. This could include physical limitations, visual impairments, or cognitive conditions that make navigating sidewalks, intersections, or distances challenging.
- Ability to board and exit a bus: If an individual is unable to board or exit an accessible bus without assistance beyond what a bus operator can provide with ramps or lifts, they may be eligible. This factor considers the physical ability to use boarding devices and move safely on and off the bus.
- Cognitive ability to navigate the fixed-route bus system: Individuals who have cognitive disabilities that prevent them from understanding and using the fixed-route bus system, including understanding routes, schedules, and transfers, may be eligible for STS.
It’s important to note that certain factors are not considered when determining STS eligibility. These include:
- Age: Age is not a factor in determining ADA paratransit eligibility.
- Distance to a bus stop: The distance an individual lives from a bus stop is not a determining factor, unless their disability prevents them from traversing that distance.
- Lack of bus service in an area: While STS service areas are based on fixed routes, the general lack of bus service in a particular area is not an eligibility factor.
- Overcrowded buses: Concerns about bus overcrowding are not considered in STS eligibility determinations.
STS Service Area and STS+ Expansion
The standard STS service area is defined by the ADA and encompasses areas within ¾ of a mile on either side of an existing CATS fixed or local bus route. This ensures that paratransit services are available in areas where fixed-route bus service is already established. STS operates within this area during the same days and hours as the corresponding fixed-route bus service in that location.
It is important to note that even if your residence is outside the designated service area, you may still be eligible for STS. In such cases, you would need to be picked up and dropped off at a location within the ¾-mile service area. This allows individuals who live just outside the service area to still access STS for their transportation needs.
STS+ Expansion to Mint Hill:
CATS is dedicated to expanding accessible transportation beyond the minimum ADA requirements. Beginning in October 2024, CATS launched STS+, an expanded service specifically for the Mint Hill area. STS+ extends paratransit services beyond the federally mandated ADA service area, demonstrating CATS’ proactive approach to meeting the diverse needs of the Charlotte community.
STS+ operates with the same principles as STS – pre-scheduled, shared-ride, origin-to-destination, and curb-to-curb service – but covers a broader geographic area in Mint Hill. This expansion provides a dependable transportation alternative for individuals with disabilities in Mint Hill, increasing their access to jobs, services, and community engagement opportunities. The introduction of STS+ highlights CATS’ commitment to excellent service and positive rider experiences for all passengers, including those with disabilities, even in areas beyond federal mandates.
Potential Impacts of Fixed Route Changes:
As CATS adapts and improves its fixed-route bus service, changes to these routes can potentially affect the ADA ¾-mile service area for STS riders. When fixed routes are modified or adjusted, the corresponding STS service area may also change. These changes could impact whether STS can provide service directly from your residence or to your desired drop-off location. CATS communicates these service changes to STS riders to ensure they are informed of any potential impacts on their transportation arrangements.
Applying for STS Transportation Services
To utilize STS Transportation, individuals must first apply and be certified as eligible riders. The application process is designed to assess eligibility based on ADA guidelines and ensure that STS services are provided to those who genuinely require them.
How to Obtain an Application:
Individuals interested in applying for CATS Paratransit can obtain an application through several convenient methods:
- Mail: To receive an application by mail, contact Paratransit at 833.656.7699 and select option 3.
- Fax: To receive an application by fax, contact Paratransit at 833.656.7699 and select option 3. Completed applications can be faxed to 310.410.0239.
- Online: The most efficient way to apply is online through the ADA Ride website: https://www.adaride.com/. Follow the online instructions to complete and submit your application electronically.
Completing Your Application:
When filling out your application, it is crucial to provide comprehensive information. You will need to:
- Describe your disability: Clearly explain the nature of your disability (physical, cognitive, or visual).
- Explain the impact on fixed-route bus use: Detail how your disability prevents you from using CATS fixed-route bus service. Be specific about the challenges you face related to accessing bus stops, boarding/exiting buses, or navigating the system.
- Complete all sections: Ensure that every question on the application is answered thoroughly.
- Professional Verification: A healthcare provider must complete the professional verification section of the application. This verification from a medical professional is a critical component of the eligibility assessment.
Submitting Your Application:
Once you have completed the application and obtained professional verification, you can mail your application to the following address:
19300 S. Hamilton Ave. Ste 120 Gardena, CA.
Incomplete applications will be returned, so double-check that all sections are filled out accurately and completely before submitting.
The STS Eligibility Determination Process
After STS receives your completed application, the eligibility determination process begins. This process may involve an interview and functional assessment to fully understand your transportation needs and eligibility for STS.
Interview and Functional Assessment:
- Scheduling: You may be contacted to schedule an appointment for an in-person interview. In some cases, a functional assessment may also be required.
- Purpose: The interview and assessment are designed to gather more information about your disability and how it affects your ability to use fixed-route buses. The functional assessment, if required, is conducted by a professional to evaluate your physical and/or cognitive abilities related to using public transportation.
Eligibility Determination Outcomes:
Following the interview and assessment, your application will be reviewed, and you will be notified of your eligibility status. There are three possible outcomes:
- Eligible to Ride: If you are determined to be eligible, you will receive a letter of determination confirming your certification and eligibility to use CATS STS.
- Eligible with Conditions: In some cases, individuals may be deemed eligible with conditions. This might mean eligibility for certain types of trips or under specific circumstances. The letter of determination will outline any conditions associated with your eligibility.
- Ineligible to Ride: If you are determined to be ineligible for STS, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the ineligibility determination.
Appeals Process:
Applicants who are deemed ineligible or eligible with conditions have the right to appeal the evaluation. CATS has established an independent panel, which includes a person with a disability, to hear appeals and ensure a fair review process. Information on how to file an appeal will be provided in the ineligibility or conditional eligibility letter.
Functional Assessment Requirement:
Depending on the nature of your disability, CATS staff may require certification from a functional assessment professional to confirm that you are unable to use fixed-route buses. CATS staff will inform you if this assessment is necessary as part of your eligibility determination process.
STS for Visitors to Charlotte
CATS STS extends its commitment to accessibility to visitors as well. In accordance with ADA regulations, STS provides paratransit service to visitors to Charlotte who are already certified as ADA paratransit eligible in their home jurisdiction.
Visitor Eligibility:
To utilize STS as a visitor, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- ADA Paratransit Certification: Be certified as ADA paratransit eligible in the jurisdiction where you reside.
- Documentation of Residence and Disability: If your disability is not apparent, you may provide documentation of both your residence and your disability.
Visitor Service Duration:
Visitor status allows the use of CATS STS for up to 21 days within any 365-day period. This ensures that visitors with disabilities have access to transportation during their time in Charlotte.
Verification for Visitors:
To verify visitor eligibility, please fax the necessary documentation to 310.410.0239 or email it to [email protected]. This documentation will be reviewed to confirm your eligibility to use STS services as a visitor.
Scheduling Your STS Trip
Once you are certified as eligible for STS Transportation, scheduling your trips is straightforward.
To schedule a trip, simply call: 1.833.656.7699.
When you call to schedule, please have the following information ready:
- Your name and STS rider ID (if applicable).
- The date and time you need your ride.
- Your exact pick-up address and destination address.
- Any specific needs or accommodations you require.
Scheduling trips in advance is essential for STS, as it is a pre-scheduled service. Call as soon as you know your transportation needs to ensure availability.
Contact Information for STS Transportation
For any questions regarding STS eligibility, certification, or general inquiries, please contact the STS eligibility and certification office at:
Phone: 1.833.656.7699
CATS STS is dedicated to providing accessible, reliable, and respectful transportation services to individuals with disabilities in Charlotte. We encourage eligible individuals to apply for STS and experience the freedom and independence that comes with accessible transportation.
