The funding of transit and paratransit services in the USA is discussed. Mobility problems may be particularly acute in rural areas. The development of three rural transit system operational tests in Massachusetts, South Carolina and northern Florida using Advanced Public Transportation Systems (APTS) is described. These systems co-ordinate current transit system operations with other health and human service transportation services. The partnerships, integration initiatives and financing initiatives of these services are described. The leveraging of transportation funding among agencies provides a viable mechanism to improve overall transit service in rural environments. APTS technologies improved operating efficiency, enabled services to expand by co-ordinating existing fragmented services, and enhanced customer satisfaction. Development of a national model for future financing and co-ordination efforts is planned.
Abstract