PARATRANSIT AT A TRANSIT AGENCY: THE EXPERIENCE IN NORFOLK, VIRGINIA

The objective of this project was to test the feasibility of a transit agency's development and provision of alternative, lower-cost transportation services. Demand-responsive and fixed-route paratransit service were substituted for unsatisfactory bus services in low-to medium-density areas and introduced in unserved suburban and rural areas. Services were extensively monitored, and the results are reported. The new services failed in new service areas due to lack of riders. Where bus service was severely reduced or eliminated, subsitute services were largely successful in continuing to attract a substantial ridership at lower cost (deficit) to the transit agency. Major problems, including opposition by the transit union and some private service providers, and also some operational problems are discussed.