Title

Helping seniors take the bus: innovative transit travel training programs

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

2005

Subject Area

Location - USA, Mobility - Disabled, Modes of Transport - Bus, Transport programs - Travel training

Abstract

his article examines mobility training programs that are being developed across the country and are designed for older transit users, with a focus on improving. One is the Easy Rider Program of Special Transit in Boulder, Colorado, designed to expand the independent travel options of older persons and persons with disabilities. To the greatest extent possible, each person's travel needs are addressed in individual sessions so that, for example, a low-vision transit user would be able to devise a route to minimize street crossings. The training also teaches users how to ask for existing programs and services that would serve their needs best. Group training and peer-to-peer training is also described. The Charlotte Area Transit System in Charlotte, North Carolina, actually brings a demonstration bus to senior centers and takes riders on demonstration trips. Ann Arbor, Michigan and Palm Beach, Florida also have well-developed programs. The article notes that some of the training is done by older volunteers who receive free transit passes in exchange for their time.