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Paratransit

Paratransit is a passenger transportation service primarily intended for mobility-impaired, mentally-impaired, and senior citizens (elderly persons). Most vehicles used in paratransit are especially equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps to facilitate access. This service allows a lot of younger people with disabilities to have jobs by providing transportation to and from their workplaces.

Paratransit service grew in the United States following the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) which require complimentary paratransit be provided alongside most public transit services in the United States which receive funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

Some paratransit services are self-operated by governmental entities and community service organizations. Others are operated by privatization contractors. Laidlaw International, Inc. is the largest provider of contract paratransit services in the United States and Canada.

In Hong Kong, Rehabus service is provided by The Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation.

Last updated: 05-13-2005 07:56:04