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State delegation highlights paratransit pilot and local transportation options for seniors
Summary
Legislators described a statewide paratransit pilot that expands door-to-door service and a RIPTA flex-on-demand pilot, and urged Narragansett to pursue eligible grants and coordinate on making pilots permanent.
State legislators told Narragansett officials on Feb. 3 about a statewide paratransit pilot and flexible on-demand transit that could expand transportation access for seniors and people with disabilities.
Senator Alana DeMario and Representative Carol Hagan McEntee described a pilot begun in January that allows people eligible for paratransit to obtain door-to-door service statewide; the program has enabled at least one Narragansett resident to commute to work rather than rely on rides from others. The delegation said the program pairs with RIPTA's flex-on-demand pilot, which uses ride-hailing services like Lyft or Uber for trips at prices comparable to a bus fare and is being evaluated for integration with paratransit.
Why it matters: Expanded door-to-door service could increase independence for residents with mobility limitations and reduce barriers to employment and services.
Discussion details: Legislators said the pilots are popular and that making them permanent would require budgetary decisions; costs are described as manageable but require planning. The delegation advised the town to flag potential grant opportunities and to request state or federal letters of support when applying.
Ending: The delegation encouraged Narragansett to pursue available grants for transportation and to coordinate with state leaders on making successful pilots permanent.
