Navigating transportation options can be a significant concern for seniors and their families. Ensuring reliable and accessible transportation is crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life as we age. This guide provides essential information about accessing elderly transportation services, specifically focusing on the ACCESS program and how it caters to the mobility needs of seniors.
ACCESS Program Updates and Key Information
The ACCESS program is dedicated to providing accessible transportation solutions. While the ACCESS program office is currently operating under modified conditions, their commitment to serving riders remains steadfast.
Office Access and Appointments:
Please note that the ACCESS program office is not open for walk-in visitors. However, in-person appointments can be scheduled for specific needs such as making ePurse deposits or dropping off applications. To arrange an appointment, please call (412) 562-5353 or TTY 711. Appointments are available on the same day, provided you call at least one hour in advance. Office hours for in-person appointments are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Application and Deposit Processing:
For seniors applying for the 65 Plus program, applications are typically processed within two weeks. When making ePurse deposits by mail, please be aware that processing may take up to 5 days due to potential postal service delays. Planning accordingly will ensure uninterrupted access to your transportation funds.
Same-Day Transportation Options for Seniors
Recognizing the need for flexible transportation, the ACCESS program, with the support of PennDOT, offers same-day trip requests based on vehicle availability. This service enhancement provides greater spontaneity and convenience for elderly riders.
How to Request a Same-Day Trip:
To request a same-day trip, simply call your local ACCESS service provider. While same-day trips are not guaranteed due to vehicle availability, service providers will make every effort to accommodate your request. It is recommended to call at least one hour before your desired pick-up time. Importantly, there are no additional costs or restrictions on trip purposes for same-day service, making it a user-friendly option for various needs.
ACCESS: A Comprehensive Transportation Solution for the Elderly
ACCESS has been a vital paratransit service in Allegheny County since 1979, offering coordinated and shared-ride transportation with a focus on door-to-door service and advanced reservations. This long-standing program is built on a unique public-private partnership, drawing on multiple funding sources to ensure affordable mobility for riders.
Key Features and Benefits of ACCESS:
- Extensive Network and Reliability: Utilizing 230 vehicles operated by four service providers, ACCESS manages an impressive 94% on-time performance rate. This commitment to punctuality provides peace of mind for seniors relying on scheduled transportation.
- Efficient and Cost-Effective: With administrative costs at just 5.5% of total expenses, ACCESS demonstrates streamlined efficiency in managing a large-scale transportation service.
- ADA Compliance and Beyond: ACCESS not only meets but exceeds all minimum requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for complementary paratransit service.
- Large-Scale Service: As one of the largest coordinated transportation services in the nation, ACCESS facilitates approximately 3,000 trips daily on weekdays and serves 1 million trips annually, highlighting its significant impact on community mobility.
- Award-Winning Coordination: The ACCESS program’s excellence in coordinated transportation has been recognized with the United We Ride National Leadership Award, presented by the Federal Interagency Coordinating Council. This award underscores ACCESS as a national model for effective and coordinated transportation services.
- Person-Centered Amenities: Beyond basic paratransit, ACCESS offers a range of person-centered amenities to enhance user experience. These include:
- Driver assistance with steps (up to four).
- Assistance carrying packages (up to four).
- Hand-to-hand service for individuals needing constant supervision.
- Assistance with car/booster seats.
- Service modifications to accommodate individual needs.
- Web-based, cashless payment system (ePurse).
- InTouch Callouts for arrival/pick-up notifications, low ePurse balance warnings, and weather updates.
- “No Strand” policy ensuring riders always have a ride home.
Who Does ACCESS Serve?
While ACCESS is available to the general public, it primarily serves individuals with disabilities, clients of human service agencies, and people aged 65 and over. The program is proudly sponsored by Pittsburgh Regional Transit, further solidifying its role as a vital public service.
For any questions or further assistance, the ACCESS program office staff are available by phone Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (412) 562-5353 or TTY 711. ACCESS is committed to ensuring seniors in Allegheny County have reliable and accessible transportation options to maintain their independence and connect with their community.
