ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates the importance of a consolidated specialized transportation system to the quality and independence of all mobility impaired citizens either as a “stand alone” system or as an integral part of an accessible fixed route bus system. In order to keep the costs as low as possible, the specialized transportation provider must be productive (more trips per vehicle hour), while maintaining a reasonable level of quality. Specialized transportation systems must be flexible and demand orientated, with the stipulation of being equal to, not better, than fixed route systems. In the rural areas the people provide all the transportation service on either a subscription basis or in the demand/response mode. The demand for specialized transportation services have continued to increase in a service area as well as in areas of Washington State. Fixed route transit will never be able to meet the transportation needs of all people with disabilities.
