Subjects: NPT, DIS, SCZ, DEI
Introducing RideFACTNOW: On-demand Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Transportation Service Launches in San Diego County
FACT and SANDAG Partner to Provide Affordable, Same-Day Service for Individuals With Disabilities and Seniors
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- FACT (Facilitating Access to Coordinated Transportation) ? a non-profit organization on a mission to improve mobility for individuals with disabilities, seniors, veterans, low income individuals, and other disadvantaged populations in San Diego County ? recently launched a new essential transportation service: RideFACTNOW. In collaboration with SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments), RideFACTNOW sets a groundbreaking precedent as one of only two programs of its kind in California ? offering individuals with disabilities on-demand affordable, curb-to-curb transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV).
"Every RideFACTNOW journey is not just a ride, but a reliable, accessible experience for those who depend on it."
RideFACTNOW sets a new standard for accessible transportation in the San Diego region as an on-demand service that's accessible to all 18 cities and most unincorporated areas. The program stands out for its affordability and convenience, providing same-day service within the hour, for a flat rate of $10 per one-way ride throughout San Diego County. Unlike other transportation services, RideFACTNOW provides vast accommodation options, including accessible vehicles and qualified drivers. Unlike on-demand rideshare services, RideFACTNOW's flat fee is affordable and not subject to fluctuations. The service also guarantees access to a WAV, which standard rideshare services cannot.
"We're honored to be selected to provide RideFACTNow service to San Diegans," said Arun Prem, FACT Executive Director. "It's a significant endeavor, and we are fully committed to delivering the best service possible to ensure individuals with disabilities have access to the resources they require. Our standards ensure every RideFACTNOW journey is not just a ride, but a reliable, accessible experience for those who depend on it. Four months in, we're proud to have delivered over 5,000 rides for San Diegans."
In 2022, FACT was selected by SANDAG to receive a $2.5 million grant enabling the organization to administer this service for one year beginning in June 2023. This fall, the SANDAG grant will be open for bids and FACT intends to reapply to continue the service beyond June 2024.
"FACT is proud to work with SANDAG to implement this program which fills a critical gap in our transportation network," said FACT Board Chair Susan Hafner. "This service creates new, accessible ways for people to connect to opportunities and experiences," adds SANDAG and San Diego County Board Chair Nora Vargas. "Investing in accessible transportation will continue to remove economic barriers and improve quality of life for this historically underserved community."
RideFACTNOW brings riders to their destinations safely and punctually, thanks to FACT's extensive experience in providing specialized transportation. Common reasons for using this service are for medical appointments, grocery shopping, family gatherings, and other essential visits. This affordable, convenient solution will prove integral to the San Diego community in its commitment to ensuring equitable transportation services for San Diegans.
On September 21, 2023, Circulate San Diego awarded RideFACTNOW the 2023 Momentum Award for enhancing "Public Transit Connectivity".
To schedule a ride, please call (888) 924-3228. For more information about RideFACTNOW visit http://www.factsd.org
About FACT:
FACT, formed as a non-profit agency in 2005, assists San Diego County residents with barriers to mobility to achieve independence through coordination of transportation services. In 2006 the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) designated FACT as the Consolidated Transportation Services Agency (CTSA) for San Diego County under the provisions of the State Transportation Development Act. It provides services across San Diego County, and in all 18 cities. More information can be found at http://www.factsd.org or by contacting FACT at 760-754-1252.
About SANDAG:
SANDAG is the regional agency that connects people, places, and innovative ideas by implementing solutions with our unique and diverse communities. We are committed to creating a San Diego region where every person who visits, works, and lives can thrive.
Media Contact
Kimberly White, FACT, (619) 348-5706, [email protected], https://factsd.org/ridefact/
SOURCE FACT
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