Paratransit Service in Utah
The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) operates the Paratransit Service Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Program as a service for people with disabilities who are unable to independently use the UTA fixed route bus service. UTA’s Paratransit service area provides curb-to-curb service as long as the origination and destination places are located within 3/4 of a mile of an existing fixed bus route during the route’s regular service hours. Beyond-the-curb service, sometimes called door-to-door service because it involves driver assistance from exterior doors to the vehicle or vice versa, may be available in some situations where the exterior door is no further than 100 feet from the curb. More information about Paratransit Services can be found in UTA’s Paratransit Rider’s Guide.
Eligibility
Having a disability alone does not guarantee Paratransit eligibility. The decision is based on the applicant’s functional ability to use the fixed-route bus. Many people with disabilities use the fixed-route bus system. The buses and trains are wheelchair accessible with lift-equipped or low-floor access. Drivers often assist passengers with disabilities in using the fixed-route bus service. For more information on using fixed-route public transportation, see the Using Public Transportation with a Disability Factsheet.
If you’d like to apply for Paratransit services, contact the UTA Paratransit Evaluation Center by calling either (801) 287-2263 or toll-free (877) 882-7272 ext. 2263. Please note that UTA does not have a dedicated TDD number. If you are deaf or hearing-impaired use either a teletypewriter (TTY) or computer equipment with TTY capability to place your telephone calls, dial 711 (Relay Utah) then give the Relay operator the Paratransit Scheduling number (287-7433). Calls are only accepted using the video relay services if you have equipment available.
The eligibility process may include filling out an application, providing required medical documentation, determining your service area, and going to an in-person appointment for an evaluation and functional assessment. You can gather your medical documentation in advance of your in-person appointment and figure out if you are within 3/4 of a mile of a fixed-route bus service area. If you are unsure, call UTA at (801) 287-2879 and provide your address. UTA will let you know if you are in the services area. If you are not within a service area, UTA can give you the closest service point which you would need to reach to get Paratransit service. For more information about Paratransit eligibility, see UTA’s Paratransit Eligibility Process Brochure.
Decision and Appeal Process
You may be approved for unconditional or conditional Paratransit use, or temporary Paratransit use. You may also be denied Paratransit use. Applicants who disagree with the outcome of their Paratransit application may file an appeal. Applicants have sixty (60) days after the decision to file their appeal. Additional information about the Appeal Process is available through UTA’s ADA Compliance Officer, who can be reached at (801) 287-3536.
Reasonable Modifications of Paratransit Service
If you need a change or modification to UTA Paratransit policies, services, programs, or activities in order to fully utilize Paratransit services, reasonable modifications can be arranged in advance with the Paratransit Customer Care Administrator. To request a reasonable modification of Paratransit services, submit the Reasonable Modification Request Form.
Discrimination Claims
If you feel that UTA Paratransit has discriminated against you on the basis of your disability, you may file a civil rights complaint with UTA’s ADA Compliance Officer online or by submitting the UTA Civil Rights Complaint Form via email or mail , or you may file a civil rights complaint with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) online or by submitting the FTA Civil Rights Complaint Form via email or mail.