CASCIL’S PINELLAS TRANSIT REFERENCE GUIDE Introducing the new reference guides! The first edition is devoted solely to Pinellas County transportation. A list of Pinellas County transportation options for people with disabilities can be found on pages 18-23. Feel free to contact us at (727) 577-0065 if you are experiencing transportation problems or have suggestions of topics for future Reference Guides. ? Foreword The sometimes confusing and often frustrating transportation resources available to people with disabilities in Pinellas County have brought about the need for this guide. In its preparation we have found that one reason for much of the confusion on the part of the public and even providers is the use of certain terms across all programs. Terms that do not have universal meanings among the programs and therefore add to the confusion. We have tried to clarify these terms and herein ask that each program seek to use the terms appropriately to avoid any further confusion. We have found for example that the Web sites of the three major programs covering ADA Paratransit, Transportation Disadvantaged and Medicaid non-emergency transport each use the same terms to identify their types of service. Not only is this confusing but it is not appropriate. We will attempt to clarify these problems in our guide. The standards and determinations presented are in accordance with local, state and federal laws and regulations. We welcome your input and guidance if we have made any misrepresentations or mistakes and we’ll make whatever efforts are necessary to clarify any issues in the next edition of the Transport Pinellas guide. The following glossary contains the terms that you need to know in your use of the Pinellas transit area. We recommend that you review them and when you are reviewing the rest of the guide refer back to the glossary to get the terms clear in the way that they apply. Because of the overlapping programs and the same players providing services this has become a complex issue. We have endeavored to make this as easy a read as possible. However it takes time to go through it all and get a clear picture for you. We recommend that you read this guide at least twice. If you have questions we suggest you write them down and call us at (727) 577-0065 and ask for Doug Towne. We will do our very best to clarify or assist you in getting the answers you need. Your questions will go into the planning for the next edition of the Transit Pinellas Guide. ? Transit Pinellas Glossary Accessibility- The extent to which facilities are barrier free and useable by persons with disabilities, including wheelchair users. Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)- A civil rights law passed by Congress in 1990 that makes it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities in employment, services provided by state and local governments, public and private transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications. Base Period- The period between the morning and evening peak periods when transit service is generally scheduled on a constant interval. Also known as "off-peak period." Base Fare- The price charged to one adult for one transit ride; excludes transfer charges, zone charges, express service charges, peak period surcharges, and reduced fares. Brokered Transit System- A methodology by which one entity acts as the path way through which individuals are qualified for a transportation program and then their needed trips are assigned to various providers through a proscribed methodology. Carpool- An arrangement where two or more people share the use and cost of privately-owned automobiles in traveling to and from pre-arranged destinations together. Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) - The Community Transportation Coordinators are businesses or county departments that are responsible for the arrangement of the delivery of transportation services to the transportation disadvantaged. The Coordinator may provide those trips itself, as a sole source, or the Coordinator may provide some trips, and subcontract some (partial brokerage) or, the CTC may subcontract out all the trips to approved operators, as a complete brokerage. Corridor- A broad geographical band that follows a general directional flow connecting major sources of trips that may contain a number of streets, highways, and transit route alignments. Dial a Ride Transit (DART) - Non-fixed-route service utilizing vans or buses with passengers boarding and alighting at pre-arranged times at any location within a system’s service area. Also called "Demand Responsive." Demand Responsive- Non-fixed-route service utilizing vans or buses with passengers boarding and alighting at pre-arranged times at any location within a system’s service area. Also called "Dial-a-Ride."(Note, we have chosen to use the term DART when referencing PSTA Paratransit service. This is because we do not believe that Demand Response is appropriate because the DART program does not respond on demand. This would imply that it would be same day service which it is not.) Fare Structure- The system set up to determine how much is to be paid by various passengers using a transit network at given times for specific trips. Feeder Service- This program is designed to provide transportation to and from a pick up point to a location where a passenger can utilize an accessible fixed route bus. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) - Formerly known as the Urban Mass Transportation Administration; FTA is the agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation that administers the federal program of financial assistance to public transit. It is the FTA office of Civil Rights which investigates complaints related to the ADA and transit on federally funded public transit systems in the United States. Fixed Route- Service provided on a repetitive, fixed-schedule basis along a specific route with vehicles stopping to pick up and deliver passengers to specific locations; each fixed-route trip serves the same origins and destinations, unlike demand responsive and taxicabs. Greater Pinellas Transportation Management Services (GPTMS) - The private call center or brokerage operation that has been contracted by the MPO to provide the eligibility, call center and ride assignment services for the TD program. They are also contracted through MPO to provide the same services to eligible Medicaid beneficiaries in need of non-emergency transportation. Headway- Time interval between vehicles moving in the same direction on a particular route. Intermodal- Those issues or activities which involve or affect more than one mode of transportation, including transportation connections, choices, cooperation, and coordination of various modes. Also known as "multimodal." Layover Time- Time built into a schedule between arrival at the end of a route and the departure for the return trip, used for the recovery of delays and preparation for the return trip. Local Coordinating Board (LCB)- The local body given limited input into the management of the transportation disadvantaged program and the Medicaid non emergency transportation program. Douglas Towne represents the disabled on the Pinellas LCB and can be reached at 727-531-1000. MEDICARE- The federal health insurance program for: people 65 years of age or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure with dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD). MEDICAID- A joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with low incomes and limited resources. Medicaid programs vary from state to state, but most health care costs are covered if you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)- The organization designated by local elected officials as being responsible for carrying out the urban transportation and other planning processes for an area, including the programming of federal transportation funds. In Pinellas County the MPO is also the Community Transportation Coordinator for the Transportation Disadvantaged program. Non Emergency Transportation (NET) - The term applied to transportation related to medical trips that are not of an emergency nature. Paratransit- Comparable transportation service required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route transportation systems. Personal Care Attendant (PCA) - A person who accompanies a person with a disability to see to there personal needs and requirements. Peak Period- Morning and afternoon time periods when transit ridership is the heaviest. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) - This is the federally and locally funded transportation authority that provides public transit including that required under the ADA. Public Transit System- An organization that provides transportation services owned, operated, or subsidized by any municipality, county, regional authority, state, or other governmental agency, including those operated or managed by a private management firm under contract to the government agency owner. Public Transportation- Transportation by bus, rail, or other conveyance, either publicly or privately owned, that provides to the public, general or special service on a regular and continuing basis. Also known as "mass transportation," "mass transit," and "transit." Rapid Transit- Rail or motorbus transit service operating completely separate from all modes of transportation on an exclusive right-of-way. Ridesharing- A form of transportation, other than public transit, in which more than one person shares the use of the vehicle, such as "vanpooling." Ridership- The number of rides taken by people using a public transportation system in a given period of time. Shuttle- A public or private vehicle that travels back and forth over a particular route, especially a short route or one that provides connections between transportation systems, employment centers, etc. Transfer Center- A fixed location where passengers interchange from one route or vehicle to another. Transit System- An organization (public or private) providing local or regional multi-occupancy-vehicle passenger service. Organizations that provide service under contract to another agency are generally not counted as separate systems. Transportation Disadvantaged Program- A state funded program that provides low-cost transportation throughout Pinellas County to individuals who qualify as "transportation disadvantaged" as defined by Chapter 427, Florida Statutes. To be qualified as "transportation disadvantaged" and to receive TD services, a person must have no means of transportation available, including family and friends, and have an income of less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Trip- The one-way movement of a bus along a route, usually either outbound/inbound or north/southbound, east/westbound, etc. Trust Funds- Funds collected and used by the government for carrying out specific purposes and programs according to terms of a trust agreement or statute, such as the Transportation Disadvantaged, the Social Security and highway trust funds. Trust funds are administered by the government in a fiduciary capacity and are not available for the general purposes of the government. Urbanized Area (UZA) - A U.S. Bureau of Census-designated area of 50,000 or more inhabitants consisting of a central city or two adjacent cities plus surrounding densely settled territory, but excluding the rural portion of cities. Vanpool- An arrangement in which a group of passengers share the use and cost of a van in traveling to and from pre-arranged destinations together. Having a brief familiarity with these terms will help in understanding the following descriptions of the transportation resources available to you in Pinellas County. While the list is somewhat long we felt that you, the user, needed to not only know the terms that would help with your own transportation but those that could help you follow the discussions of the various governing bodies that relate to transportation in the county. We encourage you to attend the meetings of these bodies and give your opinion at the appropriate times. ? How to Gain the Advantages of Transportation Disadvantaged Service The Transportation Disadvantaged Program (TD) is a State-funded program that provides low cost transportation throughout Pinellas County to individuals who qualify as “transportation disadvantaged”. To be qualified as “transportation disadvantaged” and to receive TD services, a person must have no means of transportation available, including family and friends, and have an income of no more than 200 percent of the Federal poverty level. The Federal poverty level varies depending on how many people live in a household. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions about the Transportation Disadvantaged program: How many trips can I take on TD? The number of trips provided through the TD Program is limited based on available funding. Does the TD program cost me anything? Each passenger is required to pay a $3.00 rider fee for each trip in both directions, anywhere in Pinellas, regardless of distance. Does the TD program mean I will automatically get a taxi or van to transport me around? Individuals requesting service are assigned bus passes and required to pay $4.20 fee for the pass, unless they are unable to use the bus system due to a physical or mental disability. Individuals unable to use the bus are scheduled for transportation service provided by taxis sedans/vans What kind of trips can I take using TD? Services are provided by taxi cabs and wheelchair-equipped vans for purposes of medical treatment, employment, education related to employment and sustenance trips. This is one of the chief ways that the TD program differs from the DART program. Where DART must provide you transit to any where in there service area without asking the purpose and without cost being a factor of their determination, The TD program is limited by its funding restraints and the fact that the kind of trips that it can be used for are prioritized. The prioritization of TD trips is clearly allowed under the statute and the determination of those priorities is left to the LCB at the local level. How far in advance do I have to reserve a trip? 48-hr. advanced notice or reservation is required. What are the hours of operation for the TD program? Trips can be scheduled 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but the reservation center is only open to take reservations 8-5 Monday-Friday. How do I qualify and apply for the Transportation Disadvantaged program? In order to determine if you qualify for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program call Greater Pinellas Transportation Management Services (GPTMS) at (727) 545-2100 to request an application form. Applicants are notified whether they have qualified for services by GPTMS between 10 to 14 days after they receive the completed application form. Transportation to anywhere in Pinellas County is provided by taxis (sedans) or wheelchair accessible vans for $3.00 for a one-way trip for those who qualify. The cost is due in cash at the time of the ride. Services are provided 24 hours a day 7 days a week and monitored by the Metropolitan Planning Organization which can be reached at (727) 464-8200.? How Do I Apply for PSTA’S DART? PSTA's Dial-a-Ride transportation system (DART) is provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This parallel transit program makes it possible for people with disabilities to have better access to the community. PSTA's "functional" DART transportation certification process will encourage people to use regular PSTA fixed route service whenever possible. A "functional" certification process determines if a person has the ability to use an accessible bus that travels on the fixed route by determining if you are able to do such things as travel to a bus stop, board a bus, and navigate the fixed route system, and does not make decisions based on the type of disability you have or a specific diagnosis by a physician. "Eligibility for DART services is a transportation decision, not a medical decision." This statement from the PSTA Web site seems contradictory since the ADA is all based on a medical determination of disability. However this interpretation of the regulations by PSTA's administration is correct. There are three categories under which a person can be eligible for DART transportation: Eligibility includes those persons who, because of their disability, cannot independently use a regular, accessible bus. Eligibility is based on the accessibility of vehicles and terminal/stops (i.e., a person is able to use the regular bus, but it is not yet accessible). Eligibility pertains to situations in which a person cannot travel independently to or from a bus stop. A person can also be given "conditional" eligibility for DART transportation if they are able to use the regular bus under certain conditions, but not others. In this situation, eligibility for DART transportation will be determined according to a particular set of circumstances or conditions, which pertain to a person's disability. If you do not qualify for PSTA's DART transportation services, a letter will be mailed explaining the reason and advising you of procedures to follow if you wish to appeal. If you wish assistance with an appeal please contact the Caring and Sharing Center for Independent Living. If your condition changes in the future, you may reapply for PSTA’s DART transportation services. If you have a permanent disability that makes it impossible for you to independently use the regular, wheelchair accessible PSTA buses, call PSTA at (727) 540-1800 for an application form. These forms are also available at the PSTA facility located at 3201 Scherer Drive, St Petersburg, Fl 33716. PSTA’S DART System If it is determined that you qualify for PSTA’s DART system you can reap the benefits of transportation anywhere in PSTA’s service area at your request. Often referred to as Paratransit service the DART system is a complimentary service required under the ADA. The term Paratransit is a federal term that only should be used and applied to DART services. Paratransit is the abbreviation for parallel transit and does not have any thing to do with paraplegic transit as many mistakenly believe. The term should not be used in reference to any other program that provides wheelchair transport. This misuse has been the basis for much confusion in the county and frankly across the state. DART transportation service is available during the same days, hours and within the corridors as the regular bus service for any given trip request. This means that if your trip is starting within 3 quarters of a mile and your destination is within 3 quarters of a mile of a bus route and you can travel during the times that the specific bus route is active then DART can assist you if you have been previously qualified. Bus service is provided on all major roads in Pinellas County, with routes and bus stops within a short distance of most of the resident population. PSTA buses are air-conditioned and can accommodate wheelchair passengers. Information on bus routes and schedules is available from PSTA at (727) 540-1900, TDD (727) 540-0603 or at www.psta.net and can also be found at the County’s public libraries and PSTA bus terminals. Where architectural barriers, such as lack of curb cuts or sidewalk, are the only impediment to using accessible buses an individual may be transported to a bus transfer point where an accessible bus can be boarded. This program, called “Feeder” service is intended to provide you convenient access to the accessible fixed route system. Upon certification, you will be notified of the conditions of your eligibility. Bus schedules will be provided indicating the days and hours you can travel on PSTA's DART transportation. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the PSTA service. What is the price of the demand response service? The fare for DART transportation can be no more than twice the full cash fare for the same trip on the regular fixed route bus system. No discounts are offered. Once the fare for a demand response trip has been determined, correct fare is necessary when boarding the vehicle. Convenient frequent-rider tickets are also available, but may need to be supplemented when a higher fare is necessary for a particular trip. (Note: Checks and credit cards are not accepted.) How do I make a reservation? Trip Reservations/Cancellation (727) 724-0440 DART Information (727) 540-1800 You may call up to one (1) month before your scheduled trip to make a reservation, but no later than 5:00 p.m. the day before your trip. Telephone operators are available to take reservations between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. In order to accommodate as many riders as possible, pick-up times will be negotiated up to one hour before or after the pick-up time requested by the passenger. Cancellations must be made at least two hours prior to a scheduled pick-up time, or the trip will be deemed a "no show." Drivers are not permitted to wait more than five minutes after a scheduled pick up time. If a passenger is not at the door, ready to board a vehicle within five minutes of the scheduled pick-up time, the trip will be deemed a "no show." Passengers will be billed for each no-show trip, and service may be discontinued if a passenger establishes a pattern of regular and repeated no-shows. What if I travel to the same destination on a regular basis? Subscriptions can be made for certain trips and will permit you to travel without having to make a reservation each time you ride. What kind of trips can I take using DART? The provision of DART services is based on the ADA so PSTA cannot ask you the purpose of your trip. As long as the pickup and drop-off points are within the corridor of service and the times are within the normal operational times of the buses you can go anywhere you wish within those parameters. How are passengers with special needs accommodated? Accessible vehicles are available for passengers who use wheelchairs. However, wheelchair lifts on PSTA demand response vehicles cannot accommodate wheelchair devices which exceed 30 inches in width, 48 inches in length (measured 2 inches above the ground), or 600 pounds in weight when occupied. In addition, PSTA requires that all wheelchairs be secured by the securement system of the vehicle during transport. Driver assistance is provided when boarding and leaving the vehicle, and to/from building entrances when necessary. In addition, the Information and Reservation lines are Voice/TTY accessible. Please note: emergency transportation service is not provided and DART drivers are not trained in emergency medical techniques. What is permitted on the vehicle? No smoking, eating, or drinking is permitted in the Paratransit vehicle. Riders may bring one (1) portable oxygen tank. Tipping the driver is not permitted. Disruptive on-board behavior may result in the termination of riding privileges, or the requirement that the passenger travel with an attendant. Guide dogs and service animals are welcome. What won’t the DART drivers do? Enter a person's home, even to assist with a wheelchair. Administer or assist in administering medication, or provide medical treatment. Lift or carry any passengers, packages, parcels or groceries at any time. Passengers who cannot travel independently or need special assistance should travel with a Personal Care Attendant (PCA). Passengers with small children must provide their own child safety seats. ? Transportation Options for Medicaid Beneficiaries For those on Medicaid without a viable means of personal transportation, Medicaid often covers transportation for emergency and non-emergency trips to Medicaid covered medical service facilities. Recipients who have their own transportation are not eligible. Medicaid reimburses for transportation services provided for all Medicaid recipients who have no service limitations. There is a $1 recipient co-payment for transportation services for each one-way trip, unless the recipient is exempt. Round trips require two co-payments. If for some reason it is not paid it comes out of the driver’s or transportation provider’s pocket. Contact the area 5 Medicaid Office at (727) 552-1191. Recipients must be eligible for Medicaid prior to trip authorization, unless they are living in a skilled nursing facility and have applied for Institutionalized Care Program benefits. Transportation services are available only to eligible recipients who cannot obtain transportation on their own through any available means such as family, friends or community resources. All transportation must be the most cost-effective and most appropriate method of transportation available to each transportation eligible Medicaid recipient. BLS and ALS ambulance transportation must be medically necessary. Hospital to hospital transportation is not covered, unless the level of care or availability of treatment cannot be met by the first hospital. Medicaid may reimburse for one escort when, due to age or disability, a recipient needs the accompaniment and support of another individual to be able to travel to receive the Medicaid-covered services. Post authorization for non-emergency transport may be granted only when a recipient experiences an urgent but non-life threatening situation requiring transportation to access immediate medical attention, the local authorizing agent is unavailable, and prior authorization is impossible to obtain. The provider must make a post authorization request within five workdays of the date of service. Non-emergency ambulance requests must be made within 20 workdays of the date of service. Post authorization requests made after the appropriate five or 20 workday post authorization period will be denied. Transportation reimbursement is determined by agreement with area transportation providers. Ambulance transportation, for either the Basic Life Support or Advanced Life Support level of service, is reimbursed at the Medicaid published allowable rate. Non-emergency transportation services are provided by the local area transportation provider under contract to the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. If you are eligible and wish to make reservations for a ride, the phone number in Pinellas County is: 727-545-2100. This is the same number you call to make reservations for a TD sponsored trip, but it takes Medicaid reservations as well. Unless the medical need is urgent, transportation should be requested at least 72 hours prior to the medical appointment. Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance services in Pinellas County are provided by Sunstar Ambulance. CALL 911 FOR EMERGENCY TRANSPORT. ? Hurricane Warning: Plan Ahead When the summer comes in Florida, hurricane season comes with it. While many people think about buying the necessities, such as water, before a hurricane hits, few people take advantage of the Pinellas County Evacuation Assistance Program. In 2004 many people with disabilities found themselves in search of an evacuation plan as Hurricane Charley was projected to land on the Pinellas coast. Many residents with disabilities called for a costly ambulance ride out of harm’s way because they had not thought ahead. Others flooded the special needs shelters which are often unable to meet the needs of many people with disabilities. If you are a person with a disability who may need special or expanded services, this reminder is for you. In order to receive transportation when you need to evacuate because of a hurricane, you need to register for the Pinellas County Evacuation Assistance Program. There are several different ways to register: www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/Local.htm and click on the Special Needs Form link, fill out the forms and send them to 400 S. Fort Harrison Ave. Room #111 Clearwater, FL 33765 Look for the link on www.cascil.org, fill out the application, and send it to the above address Call Pinellas County Emergency Management at (727) 464-3800 Call or go to the Administration Office of any Main Fire Department and ask about registering in the Evacuation Assistance Program Fill out the insert in your Catalyst and send it to the address listed above After you fill out and return the required forms, you will be notified as to whether or not you have been accepted into the Evacuation Assistance Program. After notification, the Health Department will assess your needs in case of a hurricane. You will then be assigned an assistance plan and a shelter or hospital that will meet your specific needs in the case of an evacuation. If there is a hurricane in the area, the Department of Transportation will manage all of the local means of transportation and use their vehicles to transport to safety those who have registered in the Evacuation Assistance Program. Some things to keep in mind before applying for the program: The Evacuation Assistance program is available to anyone seeking assistance in case of a natural disaster. Income is not part of the criteria We urge you to seek Evacuation Assistance if you do not have a viable way to get out of the area in case of a hurricane. If you have any questions feel free to call Pinellas County Emergency Management at (727) 464-3800. ? Transportation Options for Those Assisted by The Ryan White CARE Act Title I of the Ryan White Comprehensive Aids Resources Emergency (CARE) Act calls for local control of major services including transportation for those living with HIV/AIDS. A Ryan White bus pass allows someone living with HIV/AIDS to ride the bus for free for one month. Unfortunately it is not easy to obtain one of the few monthly bus passes available for those seeking to gain their transportation rights given to them under the Ryan White Act. To even be considered for a Ryan White bus pass you must lack transportation to attend several medical appointments, pertaining to HIV/AIDS treatment, per month. Due to the high demand for Ryan White bus passes, a case manager is used to help obtain a Ryan White bus pass for those who need it. In order to obtain assistance in receiving a Ryan White bus pass, you can call Metropolitan Charities at (727) 321-3854 for service in St. Petersburg, ASAP IN St. Pete at (727) 895-8325, or Gulf Coast Comm. Care in Clearwater at (727) 538-7460. If you are unable to get a Ryan White bus pass, you can still apply for the Transportation Disadvantaged program. In order to determine if you qualify for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program call Greater Pinellas Transportation Management Services (GPTMS) at (727) 545-2100 to request an application form. Applicants are notified whether they have qualified for services by GPTMS between 10 to 14 days after they receive the completed application form.? Services for Seniors One of the best transportation options for seniors is Neighborly Care Network, Inc. Neighborly Care Network provides transportation for seniors who have no transportation or are unable to drive due to physical disabilities. The service is designed to help keep seniors in their homes who are in danger of being institutionalized. Transportation is available for: Doctor’s appointments Shopping Group Activities (at a cost) Senior Dining Facilities Adult Day Care Facilities Neighborly Care Network provides rides with no set fees, but clients are encouraged to contribute to the full cost of the service. Participants must be 60 years or older and residents of Pinellas County. Drivers are trained to handle special needs passengers including those who are visually or hearing impaired, or those who use canes, walkers, or wheelchairs. Drivers are also trained in basic CPR, in case of emergency. Neighborly Senior Services is available for pickup from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday (other days can be arranged for a fee), excluding Holidays. Reservations must be made 7 days in advance. Contact information for Neighborly Senior Services: For rates and scheduling call (727) 571-4384 ? To make a donation or volunteer as a driver call (727) 573-9444 ? Contact List \Neighborly Care Network Transportation Services Administration & Trip Reservations: for registered clients (727) 571-4384 M-F 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Group door-to-door day care centers, group dining sites, individual medical, grocery shopping and life sustaining destinations. Individual trips for medical. Advance notice: 7 days, Pick up, M-Fri 9a.m.-2p.m. Other days can be arranged-service fee basis. Area served: Pinellas County based on availability of funding. Medical trips within a ten-mile radius of pickup. Eligibility and fees: No fee for age 60 and up and/or transportation disadvantaged. Other criteria are determined by specific contracts with outside agencies and groups. Donations are encouraged for grant-funded trips. Special trip fees are determined on a case-by-case basis. Demand Response DIAL-A- RIDE Transit (DART) Information :(727) 540-1800 Reservations: (for approved applicants only) (727) 724-0440 Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) offers this specialized transportation for qualified disabled passengers who are unable to use regular bus service. Application & reservations required. Call the information number to request an application. Days and Hours: Vary. Fee: $2.50 per ride: multi-ride punch cards available for Pinellas County. Transportation Disadvantaged through MPO Community Transportation Service for application: (727) 545-2100 State-funded provides transportation through the MPO. Pinellas individuals must qualify as "transportation disadvantaged." Service for: medical, employment, grocery, banking, and education related to employment. Advance notice: 48-hours required. Days and hours: Paratransit provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Area served: Demand response in Pinellas County provided by taxi sedans/minivans. Wheelchair equipped vans are provided for the handicapped. Eligibility and fees: Income must not exceed $1,400 per month (subject to change) for one. Must have no transportation, including family and friends. $3 fare (for a one-way trip)due in cash at the time of the ride. BUS service: Eligible individuals can receive a 31-day unlimited bus pass (GO CARD). The cost is $4.20 a month for transportation, anywhere a PSTA bus can take them. First method of transportation offered is the bus. Application forms call: Community Transportation Services (727) 545-2100. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) (727) 540-1900 Info line (727) 540-0603 TDD Seniors (65 and over) can save 50% or more, with a Senior Special Citizen Photo ID, on the cash fare or use a reduced fare Daily or 31-Day Unlimited Ride GO Card. Any PSTA bus terminal or select ticket outlets. Call the PSTA Info Line seven days a week and most holidays for route and schedule information. Ask about learning how to use the bus (Show me Service). Days and hours: 5a.m to midnight, 7 days a week. Fee: 60 Cents cash, $1.50 Daily GO Card, $25.00 for a 31-Day GO Card. All require PSTA issued ID. Serves: Pinellas County. www.psta.net Web site has bus routes and information. American Red Cross South of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 898-3111 North of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 446-2358 Provides transportation to morning medical appointments only. Advance notice: Yes Fee: None - Donations accepted. Faith In Action Upper Pinellas (formerly Upper Pinellas Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers) (727) 738-4307 (Initial calls after approval require 1 week's notice.) Transportation to medical and grocery by volunteers who are part of a faith-based organization. Open: 9a.m. to 4p.m. Mon. - Fri. Advance notice: Yes. Serves: Pinellas County (north of Ulmerton Road). Fee: None, but donations accepted. First you have to get registered for the program. This is an in-home assessment by appointment, and generally there is a long wait for this initial appointment. After you are accepted and registered, you must give a five day notice. American Cancer Society 1-800- 227- 9954 Provides transportation for registered clients to chemotherapy and radiation appointments only. Fee: None Wheelchair Transport Services Inc. Private pay (727) 586-2811 Medicaid or TD (727) 545-2100 DART (727) 585-9900 Medicaid,Private pay, Transportation Disadvantaged program, DART Serving all areas when originating in Pinellas County Hospitals The following hospitals offer free transportation for outpatient appointments at their facilities. Advance notice is required. Morton Plant Mease Dunedin & Mease Countryside: (727) 734-6107 Morton Plant (Clearwater): (727) 461-8548 Sun Coast: (727) 581-9474 Palms of Pasadena: (727) 341-7770 Care Ride, LLC. Wheelchair Transportation Service Private Pay (727) 866-1193, Medicaid (727) 545-2100 Advance notice: One hour Days and hours: 5 am to 8 pm, 7 Days a week Area: All of Florida (must originate in Pinellas) Fees: Varies Suncoast Center for Community Mental Health, Inc. 4024 Central Avenue P.O. Box 10970 St Petersburg, FL 33733-0970 Phone: (727) 327-7656 Pinellas Association for Retarded Children (PARC) 3190 Tyrone Boulevard N. St. Petersburg, FL 33710 Phone: 345-9111 Fax: 381-6508 Upper Pinellas Association for Retarded Citizens (UPARC) 1501 N. Belcher Road, Suite 249 Clearwater, FL 33765 Phone: 799-3330 Fax: 799-4632 Escorted Transportation and Related Services: Ageless Placements, Inc. (727) 547-4337 Escorts to and from appointments, shopping, and errands. Days and hours: 9am to 4:30 pm, M-Fri, however 24 hr. answering service. Area served: Pinellas County. Fees: $12.95 per hour/$.30 per mile. Bayshore Health & Homemaker Services, Inc. (727) 586-0044 Largo (727) 322-2366 St. Petersburg Transportation, errands, companionship. Cases can be assessed and supervised by a Nurse, but this may not be needed for simple transportation services. Advance notice: Apply by phone Days and hours: 8:30am-5pm M-Fri Area served: Pinellas county Fees: If no hands-on care, a 2 Hour minimum of $18.25 each hour plus 35 cents each mile charge. Caregivers for Seniors, Inc. (727) 524-7972 Provides transportation to appointments, grocery shopping, errands. Area Served: Pinellas County. Fees: $10.00 per hour. Home Health Works (727) 442-5612 or 1-888-449-2767 Companion/homemaker and Home Health Aide. If evaluation is needed, there is a $65.00 charge. Supervised transportation and a Companion to grocery, shopping, and doctor. Area served: Pinellas and Pasco Counties. Fees: $15.00 hour and an additional 50 cents a mile change. Three hours minimum (higher hourly charge for the weekend). Hours: 9-5 Monday through Friday. Your Man Friday (727) 535-2242 Transportation to doctor, hospital, clinics, the bank, shopping and errands. Round trips to Tampa. Books three months ahead, occasionally can work in individual situation. General area, South Pinellas. Door to door pick up, stay with client during trip. Fee: Local round trip $15.00 hour, round trip to Tampa, $50.00 for first two hours each additional hour, is $15.00 Daughter on Call (727) 343-0063 Transportation and an escort for seniors. Provides transportation to grocery store, shopping, restaurants and other places. Area Served: Pinellas County. Fees: $15.00 hour for a companion, $16.00 hour for an aide. If staff's vehicle is used 50 cents per mile charge. Hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, you can call office. For Assistance in Obtaining a Ryan White Bus Pass: Metropolitan Charities (727) 321-3854 ASAP (727) 895-8325 GulfCoast Comm. Care (727) 538-7460 To Register for Hurricane Evacuation Assistance: Pinellas County Emergency Management (727) 464-3800 Caring & Sharing Center for Independent Living 12552 Belcher Rd. S Largo, FL 33773 VOICE/TTY: 727-577-0065 FAX: 727-539-7588 Toll Free: 866-539-7550 Toll Free Fax: 866-533-7558 Pasco Office: 2345 US 19 N Suite 300 Holiday, FL VOICE: 727-945-8933 FAX: 727-945-8944 Toll Free: 877-422-7245 Transportation Disadvantaged through MPO Community Transportation Service for application: (727) 545-2100 State-funded provides transportation through the MPO. Pinellas individuals must qualify as "transportation disadvantaged." Service for: medical, employment, grocery, banking, and education related to employment. Advance notice: 48-hours required. Days and hours: Paratransit provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Area served: Demand response in Pinellas County provided by taxi sedans/minivans. Wheelchair equipped vans are provided for the handicapped. Eligibility and fees: Income must not exceed $1,400 per month (subject to change) for one. Must have no transportation, including family and friends. $3 fare (for a one-way trip)due in cash at the time of the ride. BUS service: Eligible individuals can receive a 31-day unlimited bus pass (GO CARD). The cost is $4.20 a month for transportation, anywhere a PSTA bus can take them. First method of transportation offered is the bus. Application forms call: Community Transportation Services (727) 545-2100. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) (727) 540-1900 Info line (727) 540-0603 TDD Seniors (65 and over) can save 50% or more, with a Senior Special Citizen Photo ID, on the cash fare or use a reduced fare Daily or 31-Day Unlimited Ride GO Card. Any PSTA bus terminal or select ticket outlets. Call the PSTA Info Line seven days a week and most holidays for route and schedule information. Ask about learning how to use the bus (Show me Service). Days and hours: 5a.m to midnight, 7 days a week. Fee: 60 Cents cash, $1.50 Daily GO Card, $25.00 for a 31-Day GO Card. All require PSTA issued ID. Serves: Pinellas County. www.psta.net Web site has bus routes and information. American Red Cross South of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 898-3111 North of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 446-2358 Provides transportation to morning medical appointments only. Advance notice: Yes Fee: None - Donations accepted. Transportation Disadvantaged through MPO Community Transportation Service for application: (727) 545-2100 State-funded provides transportation through the MPO. Pinellas individuals must qualify as "transportation disadvantaged." Service for: medical, employment, grocery, banking, and education related to employment. Advance notice: 48-hours required. Days and hours: Paratransit provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Area served: Demand response in Pinellas County provided by taxi sedans/minivans. Wheelchair equipped vans are provided for the handicapped. Eligibility and fees: Income must not exceed $1,400 per month (subject to change) for one. Must have no transportation, including family and friends. $3 fare (for a one-way trip)due in cash at the time of the ride. BUS service: Eligible individuals can receive a 31-day unlimited bus pass (GO CARD). The cost is $4.20 a month for transportation, anywhere a PSTA bus can take them. First method of transportation offered is the bus. Application forms call: Community Transportation Services (727) 545-2100. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) (727) 540-1900 Info line (727) 540-0603 TDD Seniors (65 and over) can save 50% or more, with a Senior Special Citizen Photo ID, on the cash fare or use a reduced fare Daily or 31-Day Unlimited Ride GO Card. Any PSTA bus terminal or select ticket outlets. Call the PSTA Info Line seven days a week and most holidays for route and schedule information. Ask about learning how to use the bus (Show me Service). Days and hours: 5a.m to midnight, 7 days a week. Fee: 60 Cents cash, $1.50 Daily GO Card, $25.00 for a 31-Day GO Card. All require PSTA issued ID. Serves: Pinellas County. www.psta.net Web site has bus routes and information. American Red Cross South of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 898-3111 North of Ulmerton Rd. (727) 446-2358 Provides transportation to morning medical appointments only. Advance notice: Yes Fee: None - Donations accepted.