Understanding ADA Paratransit
Overview
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects the rights of people with disabilities and ensures access to public transportation. Metro buses and trains are accessible to people with disabilities and include features such as:
- Ramps for wheelchair users and any rider needing the ramp to board/exit a bus
- Audio and visual stop announcements
- Spaces for wheelchairs on buses and trains
- Elevators and escalators to access rail stations
If a disability prevents use of Metro buses or rail, even with these accessible features, ADA Paratransit Access Line (PAL) may be available.
What is PAL?
PAL is NFTA-Metro’s ADA paratransit service. It is a shared-ride, advanced reservation service for individuals who are eligible under ADA paratransit rules. PAL provides transportation within the service area from the requested pickup location to the requested destination. Trips may include other riders traveling in the same direction. Accessible vehicles are used for all PAL trips. PAL Bus Operators can assist a rider, when needed, to and from the vehicle and the outermost door of a building, but they do not enter buildings or carry personal items.
PAL may be used for many types of trips, including:
- Medical appointments
- Work
- Shopping
- Personal errands
- Social and community events
Is PAL Right for You?
A person may be eligible for PAL if, because of a disability, they cannot:
- Get to or from a bus stop or rail station
- Board, ride, or exit an accessible bus or rail
- Use fixed-route service for some trips or under certain conditions