New Orleans RTA Reverses Paratransit Service Cuts

New Orleans RTA reverses paratransit cuts after advocacy groups and officials intervene

New Orleans RTA Reverses Paratransit Service Cuts

New Orleans' Regional Transit Authority reversed proposed paratransit policy changes that would've cut service areas for older and disabled riders, officials said Friday. The agency apologized for inadequate communication after advocacy groups and government officials intervened. The changes would've limited rides to within three-quarters of a mile of bus routes, significantly reducing access for riders who depend on door-to-door service.

Policy Would Have Met Only Minimum ADA Standards

The proposed modifications would've aligned paratransit services with minimum Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, transit officials said. Historically, the RTA has provided services to a much larger area beyond the three-quarter-mile threshold. The agency cited operational strains as the reason for the proposed changes, though specific details about those operational challenges weren't provided. In September, federal regulators found the RTA's paratransit service in violation of disability-rights laws.

Advocates and Officials Pressure Agency to Reverse Course

The decision to pause implementation came after significant pressure from transit advocates, government officials, and Mayor Helena Moreno. "We need to improve the comfort and efficiency of paratransit services," said Commissioner Mitchell Guidry, Jr., appointed by Mayor Moreno. Courtney Jackson, executive director of RIDE, stressed the need for improved communication from the RTA regarding service disruptions. Long-time paratransit rider Liljose Marie Tompkins highlighted the potential impact on riders who rely on the service to access businesses exclusively located in Jefferson Parish.

Jefferson Transit Learned of Changes Through Rumors

Jefferson Transit only learned about the proposed policy change on February 11 after parish officials reached out to address rumors circulating among Ochsner employees, officials said. The RTA backtracked on the proposed policy change on Friday following intervention from advocacy groups and government officials. The agency hasn't provided a timeline for when it'll release a revised paratransit service plan or how it'll address the operational strains it cited as the reason for the original proposal.

Riders Await Details on Service Improvements

Paratransit riders who depend on the service for medical appointments, work, and shopping in Jefferson Parish can continue using the current service area. Officials haven't said what changes, if any, they'll propose to address operational concerns while maintaining access for disabled and older riders. The agency said it'll improve communication with the community about future service modifications. Moovit provides real-time updates for New Orleans transit routes and paratransit service information.