Improving Access for All: Bringing On-Demand Technology to Paratransit

Paratransit has been a staple of public transportation since the Americans with Disabilities Act became law in 1990. For people with disabilities, this service has enabled them to access their community when unable to use fixed-route transportation due to physical barriers. However, the high cost per trip, the long reservation lead times, and unreliable travel time has limited its appeal and has pushed agencies and riders alike to yearn for a better alternative.

On-demand transportation has transformed urban mobility, and recent success with pilot projects in Denver and Boston hint at the potential to transform paratransit as well, bringing a new level of mobility to people with disabilities. Join the Eno Center for Transportation for a deeper look into the future of paratransit as we discuss how on-demand transportation could play a central role with panelists from Denver RTD, MBTA, Easterseals, and Uber.

Speakers:
Ben Schutzman, Head of Paratransit Services, MBTA
Paul Hamilton, Senior Manager, Paratransit Services, Denver RTD
Judy Shanley, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President, Education & Youth Transition, Easterseals; Director, National Center for Mobility Management (NCMM)
Christopher Pangilinan, Head of Global Policy for Public Transportation, Uber
Paul Lewis, Vice President of Policy and Finance, Eno Center for Transportation