Changes to Van and Car Service for the Disabled

Re “Disabled Decry Plan to Alter Rider Service,” March 2:

The principal reason for service changes by Access Services is our responsibility, in light of recent federal court decisions throughout the country, to ensure all federal Americans With Disabilities Act mandates are fully met. The Access Services board’s actions of Feb. 25 did just that. In response to community input, prior to and during this meeting, the board directed staff to work with its community advisory committee to further modify the proposed fare and reservation recommendations.

Two important non-ADA-mandated services are offered as a part of our revised system. One would offer a same-day option for short trips at a base cost of $1.50 for seven miles or less, and another would allow regularly scheduled rides of any length throughout the county for a flat rate of $1.80.

Moving from a cookie-cutter approach to a system of multiple service options not only ensures that L.A. County is protecting the civil rights of its paratransit riders but also offers distinct, non-mandated services. This new system allows our riders greater choice, flexibility and a level of service not offered anywhere else in the U.S. while ensuring a more efficient use of scarce taxpayer dollars.

Ruben Gonzalez

Manager, Legislative and

Media Services, Access Services

Los Angeles