Research Reports
Report Details

Title:	Metropolitan Area Transit Paratransit Service Boundary Study
Authors:	David Ripplinger
Publication Date:	Aug 2005
Report #:	DP-166
TRID #:	01681533
Keywords:	alternatives analysis, compliance, customer service, metropolitan areas, optimization, paratransit services, routes and routing
Type:	Research Report – Department Publications

Abstract

Determining the optimal form of service where economic realities and the desire for a high level of customer service must find balance is one of the most difficult challenges facing providers of community transportation. Accurately estimating the impacts of changes in service policy in terms of ridership, revenues, and costs is just one, though important, aspect of service design. Considering the political, economic, and customer service implications resulting from such changes is also necessary. When altering ADA complementary paratransit service care must be taken to ensure continued compliance with federal regulations.

In this study five options for the deployment of Metropolitan Area Transit's (MAT) complementary paratransit service in the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Area are analyzed. The objective is to provide information to assist in determining the optimal form of service where economic realities and the desire for a high level of customer service must find balance. The options vary only by the fare charged and the availability of service. The remainder of MAT's paratransit operations policy is expected to remain in its present form.