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Disabled riders, advocates urge council to stop JTA fare hike and preserve Connection Plus
Summary
Dozens of residents, disability advocates and drivers told the Jacksonville City Council Jan. 27 that proposed fare changes to JTA's Connection Plus paratransit would make the service unaffordable, jeopardizing jobs and independence; the council has delayed any immediate action and JTA has pushed a decision to April 2, speakers said.
Dozens of Jacksonville residents and disability advocates urged the City Council on Jan. 27 to stop proposed changes to JTA's Connection Plus paratransit program, saying higher fares and operational shifts would cost riders their independence and, in some cases, their jobs.
"Removing the service for us is critical. It will reduce our independence," said Sharon Dykes during the public-comment period, which the council limited to 90 minutes and 1.5 minutes per speaker because of heavy turnout.
Why it matters: Connection Plus serves riders with disabilities who depend on door-to-door transportation for work, medical appointments and daily life. Multiple speakers gave concrete examples of the financial effect of the proposed rate structure: Susan Bell…
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