Page Modified
6/27/08 8:35 AM

Transit Department ("County Commuter")
Division of Public Works

Ride-Assist Program FAQ

 

Kevin D. Cerrone, Director
1000 West Washington Street
Hagerstown MD 21740-5212
 Phone:  240-313-2750
Fax:  301-731-3343

  • What is the Ride Assist Program?

    Ride Assist is a transportation program developed to assist persons with disabilities and seniors in meeting their transportation needs.  The program utilizes outside contractors to provide general purpose transportation for eligible individuals who cannot utilize the County Commuter fixed-route buses.  Trips can be for any purpose.  Reduced fares are available based on eligibility.

  • Who is eligible for the program?
  • Any senior (age 60 or over) and/or persons with disabilities may be eligible provided they cannot utilize County Commuter fixed-route buses for one or more reasons.  Disabled applicants, who are under the age of 60, must have a Health Care Professional sign the application certifying disability.

  • How do I apply?
  • Simply click on this application link for a printable application, or you can call the County Commuter office to have an application mailed, or stop by 1000 West Washington Street, Hagerstown MD.  Complete the application and, if necessary, have a Health Care Professional sign their portion, then mail or bring the application to the County Commuter office.  You will be notified by mail of your eligibility.

  • How do I purchase vouchers?
  • Vouchers may be purchased at the County Commuter office or by mail, by sending a check or money order, in the amount of the vouchers desired.  Your vouchers will then be mailed to you.

  • How do I save money using the vouchers, and how many may I buy each month?
  • Based on the location of your residence, you will be allowed to purchase as many as fourteen (14), $10 packets of vouchers per month at a reduced rate.  The number of voucher packets to which you are entitled will be shown on your photo ID card.  By using the vouchers, you will save at least 50% in the cost of taxi fares.

  • What type of vehicles are available and what hours to they run?
  • Contractor vehicles are available Monday - Saturday, 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM.  Wheelchair accessible vehicles are also available.

  • How do I schedule a ride?
  • Call the authorized contractor to schedule your trip.  After your trip, show the driver your photo ID and pay him with the vouchers.  Vouchers come in $1.00, $.50 and $.25 denominations.  Simply give the driver enough vouchers to cover the cost of your trip.  Tipping your driver is encouraged, but ride assist vouchers cannot be used for this purpose.

  • Is there a time limit on using the vouchers?
  • No, if you do not use all the vouchers you have purchased in the course of  a month, you may use them at a later time.  You MUST however purchase vouchers within the year or you will be removed from the program.

  • If I have questions, who do I contact?

    The County Commuter office, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

 

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