Jet Setting July
This month, we explore multiple means of travel and our rights when out in our communities. From walking with canes and dogs to traveling in automobiles, planes, trains, buses, and more, please join us as we get ready to jet-set this July.
- July 2: White Canes and Guide Dogs in Maryland and Beyond
- July 9: Rideshares in Maryland: Rights and Tips
- July 16: Air Transportation Rights
- July 23: Paratransit Services in Maryland
- July 30: Public Transportation Services in Maryland
Use our up-to-date Bridges Resource Library to check out the paratransit services offered throughout the state of Maryland.
About Paratransit
Paratransit services offer transportation that is more individualized to the needs of passengers with disabilities while being less expensive than ride-share and taxi options.
Many paratransit services are “ADA paratransit” or “deviated route” services. In general, ADA paratransit/deviated route provides transportation services within a three-quarter (¾) mile radius of the fixed public transportation routes in the region and operates only during the same operating hours as regular public transportation.
Most of these paratransit options are shared-ride services and require customers to schedule the ride. Additionally, most also charge fares, and some are limited to certain kinds of travel (typically for medical and educational purposes).
All of the ADA paratransit services listed below require applications to use the service, so it’s important to get the application process started at least a week or two before you want to start using the service. The application process Can be confusing, so please do not hesitate to reach out to the Bridges Helpdesk for help. Most of the following services do not provide information about the availability of their services for non-residents. Please check with the agency or contact the Bridges Helpdesk to explore paratransit options outside of your local area.
Paratransit Information in the Bridges Resource Library
Searching for paratransit information can be daunting. We know, because we have done it! We have searched, documented, and summarized information regarding the availability and cost of paratransit services throughout Maryland. Please find links to this information below.
Paratransit in Maryland
ALL of the information we found!
Paratransit in the Baltimore Metropolitan Area of Maryland
Information about paratransit services in the Baltimore Metropolitan Area: Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, and Harford County.
Paratransit in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area of Maryland
Information about paratransit services in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area: Montgomery County and Prince George’s County.
Paratransit in Central Maryland
Information about paratransit services in Central Maryland: Howard County, Carroll County, and Fredrick County.
Paratransit in Western Maryland
Information about paratransit services in Western Maryland: Washington County, Allegany County, and Garrett County.
Paratransit on the Eastern Shore of Maryland
Information about paratransit services Paratransit on the Eastern Shore of Maryland: Caroline County, Dorchester County, Kent County, Talbot County, Somerset County, Wicomico County, Worchester County, and Ocean City.
Paratransit in Southern Maryland
Information about paratransit services in Southern Maryland: Calvert County, St. Mary’s County, and Charles County.
Reach Out to Us at the Free Bridges Helpdesk anytime!
Please check out the Bridges Technical Assistance Center Resource Library today!
Contact us
Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Bridges Technical Assistance Center’s Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:
- Our Accessible web form
- Email: Helpdesk@IMAGEmd.org
- Text or Leave a Voice mail message: (410) 357-1546
- Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page or Facebook Messenger
This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.