While saving money is the primary driver, agency efforts are resulting in providing communities with better, more customer-focused services.

The ability to live a self-sufficient life is important to everyone, and the ability to travel between home and destinations of choice is an integral part of self-sufficient living. Some people with disabilities use paratransit services to get where they need to go while others use fixed-route systems.

Fresh off the release of the Q'POD at 2008's APTA EXPO, Q'Straint unveiled the Quantum system at this year's EXPO.

Terry Moakley is past-president of the Association of Travel Instruction, www.travelinstruction.org. He is also a member of the United Spinal Association’s board of directors and currently chairs its VetsFirst Committee.

Increasing cutbacks in fixed-route systems has placed a strain on both paratransit operations and people with disabilities who rely on public bus and rail systems to get to work, social activities and other places.

Travel trainers teach disabled and older persons to use local public transportation fixed-route services safely and independently

The latest industry models combine cutting-edge technology with modern design to enhance numerous vehicle interiors. Current features include three-point seat belts, “back-to-back” configurations, and anti-microbial/anti-bacterial vinyl and stainless steel structures.