Integrating Users’ Perspectives in Paratransit Planning

Paratransit refers to a specialized, door-to-door, shared-ride public transportation service designed for those who experience functional barriers to conventional fixed-route transit due to disability. Paratransit plays an important role in fostering social and economic inclusion of people with disabilities, which includes a growing cohort of older adults. Indeed, as Canada’s population ages, demand for paratransit has grown in recent years. This is the case in the City of Hamilton, where older adults represent 18% of the population.

The City of Hamilton’s paratransit services are managed by Accessible Transportation Services (ATS), who have two research objectives. First, they wish to learn more about paratransit users’ travel experiences and travel satisfaction. Second, Hamilton is launching an integrated transit pilot, which could affect paratransit service planning, operational decision-making, and customer engagement. They wish to understand how best to incorporate paratransit users’ voices in integrated transit planning.

These two objectives will be achieved through a series of focus groups with paratransit users. Results will be analyzed through thematic analysis and disseminated through reports, presentations, and an academic article. This research will inform paratransit planning in Hamilton and beyond.

Faculty Supervisor:

Léa Ravensbergen;Bruce Newbold

Student:

Partner:

City of Hamilton

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Public administration

University:

McMaster University

Program: