SamTrans Launches First Same-Day Paratransit Pilot Program

The San Mateo County Transit District announced it will test a same-day paratransit pilot program over the next 12 months within its Redi-Wheels service area, according to SamTrans' news release.

The same-day option will be offered to Redi-Wheels ADA-eligible customers on a space-available basis with no limits on the number of trips a passenger can request. 

SamTrans Pilot Program Details

The pilot program was developed based on the results of a SamTrans paratransit customer survey that showed a desire for adding the service. Surveys by the Bay Area’s Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) have also shown similar results. 

“We’re always looking for ways to improve mobility options within the district,” said Tina Dubost, SamTrans manager of Accessible Transit Services. “This same-day pilot is exciting because we believe it has the potential to provide increased transportation flexibility for our paratransit customers.” 

The pilot is scheduled to start this week and run through Dec. 2024. At launch, the service will be available between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., seven days a week. 

Same-day paratransit is considered a premium service and will come with a higher fare than standard Redi-Wheels and RediCoast trips. One-way trips will cost $10 for standard fare or $8 with fare assistance. 

Eligible customers can request a same-day trip by calling the Redi-Wheels reservation phone number on their paratransit ID card and following the prompts.

The service area is divided into two zones, dividing the San Mateo County at Highway 92. Same-day trips are not guaranteed.