Thank you David Sheppard (Manager, Paratransit Customer Relations) for sending us this updated information! Please post any questions or comments.
Q. What is the new service delivery model?
A. The new service delivery model has three parts: next day ADA service, subsidized service, and coordinated service. The next day ADA service is the service that is being provided now. Subsidized service is something that we plan to have in the future where riders can choose a more flexible and spontaneous service by paying a little more than the $3 base fare. Coordinated service is also something that will happen in the future where DART will coordinate our services with other agencies, such as health and human service providers.
Q. Why is DART privatizing its Paratransit services?
A. DART has always used a contractor to provide drivers and maintenance. The only change with the new model is that the scheduling and dispatching functions will also be done by the contractor.
Q. How does the new service model differ from what DART Paratransit is doing now?
A. Instead of one vehicle type, DART will be using a variety of vehicles, to include vans, sedans, and taxis.
Q. Will the new service model completely do away with vans?
A. No. There will still be fully accessible vans for all customers who need them.
Q. How will I schedule trips using the new model?
A. Trips will be scheduled just like they are now, by calling the same number, 214.515.7272.
Q. Will I be picked up by a taxi?
A. Possibly, if your travel needs can be accommodated by a taxi.
Q. How can I be assured that this new pool of transportation providers will be courteous, friendly, and operate safe vehicles?
A. The drivers will be fully trained and expected to provide excellence in customer service, safety, and sensitivity. Any drivers who do not provide excellent customer service will be removed from our program.
Q. Is the one-way fare expected to increase with this new model?
A. No. Currently, there is no discussion of a fare increase for this new model.
Q. When are these changes expected to occur?
A. The new service is anticipated to go into effect October 1, 2011.
Q. Is there an opportunity for me to learn more about the new service model?
A. Yes. The new service model will be explained in detail at DART’s Americans with Disabilities Act Community Meetings. The next meeting is scheduled to occur at the Richardson Civic Center on Saturday, October 16, at 10:00 a.m. During the meeting, DART staff members will explain in further detail the many benefits of this new service model. We will also be discussing the new service delivery model at our meetings in January, March, May, July, and September, 2011.
Q. How will the new model benefit me?
A. We expect our riders to experience a higher quality and more personalized service. We expect ride times to be shorter, and on-time performance to be higher. We also expect that riders will have greater flexibility and more spontaneity in making trip reservations.
Please note: Effective Friday, October 1, 2010, our department name will change from Paratransit Services to Mobility Management Services.
DART rerouted at least one vital route at the Westmoreland@River Bend Metrocare location (1350 N. Westmoreland). I know many people (myself included) who relied on bus transportation to get to and from appointments.
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