Key West Transit is marking the start of its new ADA complementary paratransit service while preparing for the next fiscal year and expanding bicycle capacity on its buses.
Rogelio Hernandez, director of transportation for Key West Transit, joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about traffic in Key West.
The ADA paratransit program has been operating since June 29 and has gotten off to a strong start.
The service provides curb-to-curb transportation by reservation for eligible individuals with disabilities who are unable to use Key West Transit’s fixed-route bus system.
“It provides eligible individuals with disabilities a safe ride, safe transportation option when they’re unable to use the fixed route system,” Hernandez said.
Riders must complete an eligibility process before using the service. Applications and rider guides are available through Key West Transit and the city of Key West. Additional information is available by calling 305-809-3910.
Hernandez said the transit department is also looking ahead to the next fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. Key West Transit submitted a balanced budget proposal in July, but the proposal includes reductions in personnel and operations.
“We look forward to some guidance in the upcoming weeks from the commission, and hopefully we’ll be prepared for the next fiscal year,” Hernandez said.
Public budget workshops are scheduled for Sept. 10 and Sept. 23, giving residents opportunities to participate in the budget process.
Meanwhile, Key West Transit is increasing the bicycle capacity on buses serving the Lower Keys.
The Lower Keys Shuttle, which began operating in 2005, currently provides an important connection for residents traveling between the Lower Keys and Key West.
Earlier this year, Key West Transit replaced the two-position bicycle racks on its buses with three-position racks as part of a pilot program. Hernandez said the response from riders, users and bus operators was positive.
The transit department subsequently ordered new racks for all of its buses. The change will increase bicycle capacity by 50%.
Hernandez said the additional capacity will be particularly useful for residents who live farther up the Keys and use bicycles to reach U.S. 1 before boarding the Lower Keys Shuttle.
“They’ll know ahead of time how many positions are available on that bike rack, and they’ll be better able to plan out their day,” Hernandez said.
The new racks are being installed in phases. Hernandez said the department has received its second shipment and expects the project to be completed by the end of September.
The changes come as Key West prepares for a busy stretch of events, including Labor Day weekend and the Just a Few Friends Festival, when increased traffic is expected.
September is also Transit Month, a nationwide celebration of public transportation and the people who keep transit systems operating.
Hernandez encouraged residents and visitors to give public transportation a try, particularly during busy periods.
“It’s an easy way to reduce traffic congestion here in the Lower Keys, especially in Key West, with all these events coming up,” Hernandez said. “It’s a good way to go green and even save some money along the way.”
Hernandez also highlighted the work of Key West Transit employees, who operate the system for as many as 16 hours a day while dealing with traffic, bicyclists and other challenges on the roads.
The department closes for just three holidays each year — Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day — Hernandez said, giving employees time to spend with family and recharge.
Key West Transit also provides extended service during major events. Hernandez said service on New Year’s Day can run until approximately 2 or 3 a.m., and similar extended service is expected during Fantasy Fest.
More information about Key West Transit, routes and the ADA complementary paratransit service is available at kwtransit.com.