StreetWise Resource Guide – Public Transportation

Public Transportation

The Americans with Disabilities Act mandates accessible public transportation and also covers privately owned transportation services. Regulations issued by the Department of Transportation require that public transit vehicles and facilities be accessible. Some of these requirements specify that all new fixed-route public transit buses be accessible and that supplementary paratransit services be provided for those who cannot use fixed-route bus service.

Several web sites can help you locate transportation and mobility services in your area.

The Project ACTION Accessible Travelers' Database is a comprehensive database of accessible transit services in the United States. It contains public transit operators, accessible van rental companies, private bus/tour companies with accessible vehicles, accessible taxis, airport transportation, hotel-motel shuttles, and national 800 numbers. The search is conducted by city. There are links to urban public transit operators, rural public transit operators, and the national toll free numbers. When looking at the public transit operator links, make sure you check both lists.

The COACH Travel Trainer Database, also from Project ACTION, provides information about training programs that teach people with disabilities how to use public transportation such as buses, subways, and trains. The State Resource Sheet lists organizations and agencies within the state that will assist you in locating travel training programs in your area. Browse the COACH Database alphabetically either by program name or state and city.

The American Public Transportation Association's (APTA) Gateway to Public Transportation Links contains links to transportation systems and transportation related sites. You can look for transportation systems by state & local, by urbanized area, by mode, and university transportation systems. Links are also provided to intercity & multi-state transportation companies, international, advocacy groups, educational institution transportation programs, industry suppliers and U.S. government sites.

A note about third-party links – By selecting links on this page, you will leave DCU's web site and enter a web site hosted by an organization separate from DCU. We encourage you to read and evaluate the privacy policy of any site you visit when you enter the site. While we strive to only link you to companies and organizations that we feel offer useful information, DCU does not directly support nor guarantee claims made by these sites.