ADA SERVICES:

What is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990, guaranteeing people with disabilities equal opportunity in employment, public accommodations and telecommunications. Title II of the ADA assures people with disabilities comparable transit services to those without disabilities.

What is Complementary Paratransit Service?

It is a specialized service that complements regular fixed bus routes to provide transportation for people with disabilities who cannot use regular buses of any kind. It is available at the same times as the METRO line service, with the pick up location and destination no farther than 3/4 of a mile from a line service route.

Who can use this service?

Anyone with a disability who is prevented from using regular bus service of any kind can use this service which offers transportation to fixed routes. If you are unfamiliar with the line service routes, you can receive "travel training" to help you best utilize the service. However, if you are either prevented from ever using a line service route, or you need "curb-to-destination" service, you may schedule the Complementary Paratransit Service to get more personalized transportation. All METRO buses are wheelchair accessible and accommodate mobility aids up to 30 inches by 48 inches and a combined weight of 600 pounds.

What constitutes a disability?

Any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual such as: caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, sight, breathing, hearing, speaking, learning or working. If you are unable to fully perform any of these, you may have a disability which could qualify you for ADA Complementary Paratransit Service.

Who qualifies for this service?

ADA regulations identify three groups who are eligible:

- People who, because of their disability, are unable to board, ride or exit an accessible vehicle that is part of the regular service.

- People with disabilities who are able to use accessible vehicles, but accessible vehicles are not available at the time when it is needed.

- People who can ride accessible, regular buses, but whose disability prevents them from getting to and from the bus stop.

Eligibility may be permanent or temporary, depending on the disability. Some individuals may be eligible only for certain trips or may qualify only during certain times of the year.

How is a person determined eligible for ADA Complementary Paratransit Service?

First, a person must obtain a METRO ADA Complementary Paratransit Service application by calling 330.376.5353.

METRO has contracted the service of Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital’s Easy Street to provide functional assessments for individuals with disabilities who are applying for the METRO ADA service. The functional assessment will consist of, but is not limited to, daily tasks, transfer skills, cognitive skills and fine motor skills. The assessment or evaluation is in a non-threatening and relaxed environment. The assessment will determine if you are prevented from using the regular METRO fixed route buses.

A prescription from your physician is required prior to taking the functional assessment. This prescription must be included with your ADA application, or your physician can fax one on his/her prescription form to METRO at 330/762.0854. The prescription must state the need for a functional assessment. The prescription must be using METRO’s form and be from an MD or DO (physician or surgeon), DO (doctor of orthopedics), DC (doctor of chiropractics) or a DPN (podiatrist).

Once METRO receives the completed ADA application and the prescription, we will contact you so that you can make the appointment for your functional assessment. There is NO charge for the one-hour functional assessment. After your assessment, METRO will send you a letter of approval or denial. If approved, your certification may be temporary, conditional, seasonal, restricted or permanent.

What is a line service or fixed route?

Line buses, city buses or regular METRO buses which operate on a particular schedule and do not deviate from their route.

When does this service run?

Hours of service are based on the route your trip is complementing. But overall, METRO service runs:

Monday through Friday: 4:15 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Saturday: 5:00 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Since routes have different hours and days, you need to check first to see if the fixed route times will be convenient for your appointment or travel needs. In order for complementary paratransit service to operate, the METRO fixed route must be operating during the time you want to make your trip. It is important that you become familiar with the METRO fixed route in your area and also that of your destination.

Where does the service run?

Within Summit County. It operates within 3/4 of a mile on either side or the end of a METRO fixed route. Both your pick up and destination spots must be within 3/4 of a mile from a fixed route.

Are there limits on the number of trips?

No, there is no limit on the number of trips or on the purpose of these trips.

How do I schedule a trip?

Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance and no later than the day before. Both your pick up and return must be scheduled at the same time. No same-day requests will be honored. Call 330.376.5353 to schedule a trip.

What does it cost?

Currently, the cost is $2.00 each way. Fares are subject to change. Call 330/762-0341 for the latest information on fares. An ADA Complementary Paratransit Card is required to use this service. To apply, contact METRO ADA services at 330.376.5353 Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:55 p.m.

Do you offer multi-trip tickets?

Yes! We offer a convenient full-service ticket for complementary paratransit customers who use the service for steady travel such as school, work or long-term appointments. To obtain this convenient ticket, call 330.762.0341 or visit our customer service center at 121 South Main Street in downtown Akron.

How much do personal care attendants and companions pay?

Companions pay the regular fare. Personal care attendants ride for free and must be noted on your ADA card. If you require a personal care attendant, include this information on your ADA card application.

How does this service affect older adults who use SCAT service?

Under ADA guidelines, many of METRO’s older passengers who use SCAT may be eligible for complementary paratransit service. Call 330.376.5353 for more information.

How do I ride if I have a mobility aid?

For more information on this subject, CLICK HERE.

METRO has created an ADA Advisory Committee that studies and makes recommendations on the METRO Complementary Paratransit Service.

METRO provides an ADA Complementary Service brochure, a SCAT brochure in accessible formats for the sight-impaired, including large print and audio tape. Call 330.376.5353 for ordering information (up to six weeks lead time on audio tapes may be required).