I want to help provide accurate information on program changes that Madison Metro is facing. It is a complicated issue and affects a vulnerable population. Metro is expecting the loss of $3.9 million in federal funding normally passed through by Dane County to help fund paratransit services. Handicapped individuals who are not able to maneuver the regular bus system utilize this vital service.

With this funding no longer directly available, Metro has proposed to make the following adjustments to its service:

• Paratransit fare increase to $4
• Elimination of paratransit convenience tickets
• Elimination “leave attended service”
• Transition to curb to curb service only

Metro staff have been very involved in community outreach and discussed these proposals at a public hearing in front of its oversight committee, the Madison Transit and Parking Commission (TPC) in October. Since that time, Metro has adjusted its proposal including:

• Delaying the paratransit fare increase until 2019
• Delaying the implementation of curb-to-curb service only until 2019
• Continuing with the elimination of convenience tickets in June 2018
• Continuing with the elimination of “leave attended” service in June 2018
• TPC commissioners have decided to delay approving these proposals until later in the spring.

It is important to note the following:

• This funding has not disappeared. It is being administered in a different way through Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).
• Metro has no plans to discontinue paratransit service. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires Metro to offer paratransit service to those unable to use its fixed-route system.
• Paper agency tickets will be available to riders arranging transportation through Family Care, IRIS or other service agencies.
• Door-to-door service will still be available to riders who need this type of service due to their disability. Eligibility will be determined.
• Riders are encouraged to contact the Aging and Disability Center of Dane County (ADRC) to see what programs might be available to best serve their needs. Call: 240-7400; Email: ADRC@countyofdane.com.

Riders who have contacted the ADRC and still have questions about their new travel arrangements should call (888) 515-4747. Family Care and IRIS information is available at this number.

Metro staff are preparing a mailer with this updated information that will be sent to all paratransit riders in February. If you would like a Metro staff person to visit your group or organization to discuss these proposals, please call 266-4466 or email mymetrobus@cityofmadison.com. For more information, visit mymetrobus.com/publichearing.

Stay well!