[Blindtlk] Paratransit vs. Fixed Route.

[Mary Mc Gee]

Hi, All;

            I wouldn't take Paratransit for anything!  I've heard too many
bad stories about it, e.g. you don't get where you're going on time.  That's
not the reason I won't use it, however.  I don't believe blind people need
it, pure and simple.  We are physically capable of riding the fixed route
transit, even if we have to walk a ways to a bus stop.  We're capable of
using cabs or paying private drivers if we don't want to take the bus.  

            I use the fixed route bus a lot.  If I have to carry things or
have to do something at a certain time, I hire a private driver.  All of the
DART busses are now wheelchair accessible, so I, in ways, don't see the
point of Paratransit anymore, unless it's for people who can't get to a
fixed route stop.  

            I live in downtown Des Moines and, believe me, I've seen some
characters on and off the bus!  Now one has ever caused me a problem or put
me in fear.  I assume the "characters" exist in all cities, so I can kind of
understand the fear factor.  However, I'm willing to take the risk and deal
with anything that might arise and be able to demonstrate that I'm a
competent blind person.

            I spent over a year in Chicago and rode the fixed route transit
all the time.  I just wish Des Moines had the system Chicago had then!  I
could go wherever I wanted whenever on the CTA and never hired a driver.

Sincerely,

Mary

 

 

 

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