How does paratransit work?
After you are approved to ride, you call (360) 733-1144 to request rides no later than 5 pm the night before you plan to travel. You can make your reservation up to 7 days in advance. Please give as much advance notice as you can; this helps us to schedule rides efficiently.
Paratransit service is offered everywhere WTA offers fixed routes. The paratransit service area is ¾ of a mile on either side of fixed routes. Hours of service vary depending on your starting point and destination. Paratransit service areas mirror WTA’s fixed routes, so the service hours available in a given area depend on the fixed route hours of service offered there. To find out if paratransit will work for a specific trip, call (360) 733-1144.
Paratransit is not individual transportation. Whenever possible, we combine trips in order to serve as many passengers as possible.
What kinds of trips can I take on paratransit?
You may use paratransit for any trip purpose, other than a medical emergency. Paratransit riders use the bus to get to work or school, to visit friends and family, to go shopping, or to church, to see movies, enjoy parks and trails, keep medical or dental appointments, and many other trip purposes. By law WTA may not give one trip purpose priority over another.
How much does it cost to ride paratransit?
The paratransit cash fare is $1.00 per ride. WTA’s monthly Paratransit "Pass on File" costs $13. A quarterly Paratransit "Pass on File" costs $35.
You can purchase your Paratransit Pass on File over the phone (at (360) 676-7433) or at Bellingham Station. You will not receive a physical pass. Instead, your purchase creates a Paratransit Pass on File. Each time you call to book a ride, the Customer Service Representative you speak with will know whether you have a valid Pass on File.
If you are eligible for paratransit service, but can ride fixed route buses for some trips, you can get a Free on Fixed Route Card. This allows you to ride WTA's fixed route buses, or the Lynden Hop for free. Call (360) 676-7433 for details.
Adults 75 or older can also ride FREE (on both Fixed Route and paratransit) with a Gold Card. To find out how to get a Gold Card, call (360) 676-7433.
Does paratransit connect with flex and zone service?
Riders who are eligible for paratransit service may also use flex service or zone service. Connections to paratransit at transit stations can be scheduled in advance by calling (360) 733-1144.