As a parent, I am a little apprehensive (ok, more like terrified!) about the idea of my son jumping on a public bus independently. Getting a driver's license is not on our radar at the moment and lack of transportation can be a big barrier for employment opportunities, day programs, shopping and social events. Cobb County has both Paratransit Services and a Transportation Voucher Program (TVP) to help with this situation so I did a little research.
Where you live in Cobb County is the deciding factor on which service you use. We live off the Paratransit route so our son is eligible for the Voucher Program, but I think both programs could be nice options.
Paratransit Services
CobbLinc's Paratransit Service is for customers with disabilities living within a 3/4 mile radius from the regular bus routes (the green area on the map). You must apply, but once accepted you can use the ADA approved bus which will pick you up at the curb nearest your location and drop you at the curb of any location within the service area or at Marta Mobility. This is a reservation system and you can reserve a time up to a day in advance. Cost is $4 per adult ride, $3 per child ride and pre-approved personal care attendants will ride for free. You are able to reserve rides for your companions and service animals as well.
TRansportation VOucher Program
The Transportation Voucher Program (TVP) allows approved residents to use private transportation services and assists with the cost. Vouchers are purchased at a 10% rate, so $100 worth of vouchers will cost the resident $10. Pre-approved vendors will accept vouchers as their payment. Cobb provides a list of service providers who have their own personal rates.
You are limited to $2,400 worth of vouchers (at a cost of $240) in a fiscal year. Your travel destination does not matter to Cobb County, but the vendor will obviously price accordingly.
The nice thing about this service is you can develop relationships with the providers and contact them directly. One parent told me they use the same driver everyday to shuttle their son to and from his day program. It feels very safe and secure while helping to keep the costs manageable.
You must apply using the Paratransit Services Application to start the process for both services. It can take up to a month for final approval, so you may want to start early!
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* All photos found on the CobbCounty.org website
