The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) is committed to providing accessible and reliable transportation options for residents of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Among its diverse services, the Shared Ride program stands out as a crucial resource, offering curb-to-curb transportation for individuals with varying needs. This service is designed to accommodate multiple passengers, making transportation more affordable and environmentally friendly. If you are looking for accessible public transportation in Luzerne County, understanding the LCTA Shared Ride program is essential.
Understanding LCTA Shared Ride Service
LCTA’s Shared Ride service is a paratransit option where passengers may share their ride with others heading in similar directions. This means that while using Shared Ride, you might be picked up or dropped off alongside other passengers, and your journey could take slightly longer than a direct, private ride. Passengers are encouraged to factor in potential extra travel time when planning their trips.
Key features of the LCTA Shared Ride service include:
- Curb-to-Curb Service: Drivers provide assistance from the curb of your pickup location to the curb of your destination.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: All Shared Ride vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for passengers with mobility devices.
- Driver Assistance: Drivers are trained to assist passengers in boarding and exiting the vehicles and can help them to their destinations. However, it’s important to note that drivers are not authorized to enter residences or navigate multiple steps with wheelchairs.
To utilize the Shared Ride service, advance registration and reservations are mandatory. For any inquiries or to register, you can contact the Shared Ride Department directly at 570-288-8420 or toll-free at 1-800-679-4135. For information regarding the Special Transportation Efforts Program (STEP), please contact the Business Office in Wilkes-Barre at 570-288-9356.
For online registration, the Find My Ride Apply site offers a seamless way to apply. Furthermore, FindMyRidePA serves as a comprehensive resource center for Pennsylvanians to explore transportation options and schedule trips efficiently using computers or smartphones.
Specialized Programs Under LCTA Shared Ride
LCTA extends its Shared Ride services through several specialized programs tailored to meet the unique needs of different segments of the Luzerne County population:
Senior Citizens Transit Program
Funded by the Pennsylvania State Lottery and managed by PennDOT, the Senior Citizen Transit Program (SCTP) offers reduced fare transportation for individuals aged 65 and older. Eligible seniors can access reduced fare trips by completing an application, which can be obtained by contacting the Shared Ride Department. Proof of age is a basic requirement for the application process. This program makes transportation more affordable for senior citizens in Luzerne County, enabling them to maintain their independence and access essential services.
Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP)
The Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP), funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and administered by LCTA Shared Ride, ensures that Medical Assistance recipients have access to necessary medical appointments. If you or a family member is a Medical Assistance recipient, MATP can provide transportation to and from medical providers at no cost. MATP also offers reimbursement for fixed route services or mileage if you utilize personal vehicles or arrange rides independently for covered medical trips.
Special Transportation Efforts Program (STEP)
The Special Transportation Efforts Program (STEP) is designed to provide reduced fare transportation for persons with disabilities, aligning with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. STEP is available throughout the LCTA general service area and allows approved individuals with disabilities to utilize LCTA Shared Ride vans. Eligibility for a STEP Identification Card requires disability certification from an authorized social service agency administrator or a physician. STEP trips must originate and end within 3/4-mile of an existing LCTA bus route, ensuring connectivity with the broader public transit network.
Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Program
For individuals with disabilities aged 18-64 who require transportation beyond ADA paratransit service areas or reside in areas without fixed-route bus service, the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Program offers a vital transportation solution. This program expands the reach of accessible transportation for people with disabilities in Luzerne County, addressing gaps in service coverage.
General Public Service
LCTA Shared Ride is also available to the general public. The primary difference is that this service is not subsidized, and passengers are required to pay the full fare. This option ensures that even individuals who do not qualify for specialized programs can still benefit from the convenience and accessibility of LCTA Shared Ride. For detailed fare information and to arrange general public service, please contact LCTA directly.
Conclusion
The Luzerne County Transportation Authority Shared Ride service plays a vital role in connecting residents to essential destinations throughout the county. With its commitment to accessibility, various specialized programs, and user-friendly online resources, LCTA ensures that transportation is within reach for seniors, individuals with disabilities, medical assistance recipients, and the general public. Whether you need transportation for medical appointments, daily errands, or social engagements, LCTA Shared Ride offers a reliable and supportive transportation network in Luzerne County. Contact LCTA today to learn more about how they can meet your transportation needs.
