IndyGo seeks public input on paratransit service
IndyGo is asking for public input to help shape the future of Open Door, its paratransit service.
Meetings will be held both virtually and in person, beginning March 16 through April 8.
IndyGo is hosting conversations to understand community priorities and develop ideas for how IndyGo may operate paratransit service outside of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-mandated service area in the future.
IndyGo currently operates ADA-level service countywide, which presents a financial and operational challenge to the agency. IndyGo has already taken steps to make improvements to existing service, including upgrading the agency’s scheduling software to improve on-time performance. Now, IndyGo is taking the next steps to involve the community in determining how to provide service more efficiently, while also improving the rider experience.
The public input opportunities follow a July 2020 decision by IndyGo’s Board of Directors allowing staff to develop and implement a public involvement process in response to the agency’s Paratransit Operational Analysis. The Paratransit Operational Analysis (POA) was commissioned in summer 2019 in response to on-time performance and service challenges. The POA recommended that IndyGo review and modify its service area to ensure stable productivity and on-time performance for the ADA area.
The IndyGo Board of Directors and leadership say they are committed to maintaining county-wide service and prepared to take the necessary time to collaborate with and educate the public before implementing any service changes. IndyGo is working with the disability community through both a task force and a series of public meetings to determine how service will be provided beyond the ADA requirements.
Those interested in learning more or registering to attend one of the public input meetings should visit IndyGo’s website. Riders will receive letters and calls inviting them to attend a meeting. Individuals requiring any accommodations for access to information should contact IndyGo. American Sign Language interpreters will be provided at all public input meetings. Other requests for accommodations should be made at least three days in advance.