Travel Training Increases Transportation Options

Article submitted by Special Transit.
For more information, they can be reached at 303-447-2848 at ext. 105, or visit their website: www.specialtransit.org.

Special Transit, a nonprofit paratransit service provider in Boulder County, has created an award-winning program providing free, one-on-one instruction in travel skills using regular fixed-route RTD and call-n-Ride buses. Called the Easy Rider Program, this unique travel training program is specifically designed for older adults and people with disabilities. With the help of an expert trainer, trainees learn essential bus riding skills, such as requesting reasonable accommodations from bus operators and how to plan a trip using a route schedule and map.

This comprehensive one-on-one training includes a mobility assessment, an individualized training plan and hands-on experience in the field. A trainer meets with each trainee to discuss his/her particular travel needs, abilities and destinations, then schedules training sessions during which they can practice riding buses together. Trainers even research street crossings and sidewalk accessibility before the first training session to ensure there are no surprises along the way.

With this safe, personalized approach, trainees gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to successfully use RTD buses. Benefits include increased travel options, spontaneity and independence, as well as decreased transportation costs. People certified to use access-a-Ride can enjoy even more savings by using their valid access-a-Ride ID to ride for free on most RTD buses.

If you know someone over 60 or someone with a disability in Boulder County who could benefit from this free service, refer them to Special Transit's Easy Rider Program. Training candidates should be able to independently walk or wheel a couple of blocks and communicate verbally, in writing or with a communication device.