human services transportation plan · 3 needs assessment ii. needs assessment currently, all...

Human

Services

Coordinated

Transportation

Plan

For the

Alabama-

Tombigbee

Region

(Revised 2012)

I. Introduction……………….1

II. Needs Assessment……….3

III. Regional Strategies...….15

Appendices

A. County Transit Profiles….16

B. Transit Provider Profiles…37

C. Planned Vehicle……………..44

Acquisitions

Table of C

onten

ts

1 Introduction

I. Introduction Background

The Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission (ATRC) serves a ten-county area in southwest Alabama. The region includes Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Marengo, Monroe, Perry, Sumter, Washington, and Wilcox counties. This area covers 9,559 square miles and has a population of 194,440. The region is predominately rural and is experiencing many of the same problems rural areas across the nation are experiencing. High unemployment rates, high poverty rates, and low educational attainment figures are just a few of the issues being dealt with in this region.

Human Services Coordinated Transportation Plan

The Federal Register defines a coordinated plan as a plan that identifies the transportation needs of individuals with disabilities, older adults, and people with low incomes. The plan also provides strategies for meeting local needs, and prioritizes transportation services for funding and implementation. Key elements of a Coordinated Plan include the following:

• An assessment of available services that identifies current providers (public, private and nonprofit);

• An assessment of transportation needs for individuals with disabilities, older adults, and people with low incomes. This assessment may be based on the experiences and perceptions of the planning partners or on more sophisticated data collection efforts, and gaps in service;

• Strategies and/or activities to address the identified gaps and achieve efficiencies in service delivery; and

• Relative priorities for implementation based on resources, time, and feasibility for implementing specific strategies/activities identified.

The original Human Services Coordinated Transportation Plan for the ATRC region was developed in 2006; the plan was updated in 2008. This update was completed during the summer of 2011 and revised during the summer of 2012. Objectives

The Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission envisions an efficient, coordinated, system, where local transit providers and human service organizations work together to provide transportation to all of those in need of service throughout the region.

Goals

Goal I: Enhance Transportation Access

2 Introduction

The Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission’s goal is to enhance access to transit service in the ten- county region through the coordination of existing and future services. This will be accomplished by compiling an inventory of existing transit services, identifying unmet needs, and addressing these needs.

Goal II: Minimize Duplication

It is the goal of the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission to minimize the duplication of transit service in the ten-county region through the coordination of existing and future service.

Goal III: Provide Cost-Efficient Transit Service

It is the goal of the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission to develop the most cost-efficient transit system possible in the ten-county region through the coordination of existing and future service.

Plan Development

The Human Services Coordinated Transportation Plan for the Alabama Tombigbee Region was developed with the input of local officials, the general public, transit providers, and transit purchasing agencies. Transit providers were each contacted directly by ATRC staff and their input was compiled. The public, local officials and transit purchasing agencies had the opportunity to review and comment on the plan at the following meetings held in conjunction with ATRC’s Rural Planning Organization.

Date Location

August 2, 2011 Evergreen Chamber of Commerce

August 4, 2011 Monroe Chamber of Commerce

August 9, 2011 Linden Senior Center

August 11, 2011 ALDOT Grove Hill

August 16, 2011 Washington County Public Library

August 17, 2011 Black Belt Treasures, Camden

August 18, 2011 Livingston Public Safety Building

August 23, 2011 Gilbertown City Hall

August 25, 2011 Centre for Commerce, Selma

August 25, 2011 Perry County Chamber of Commerce

3 Needs Assessment

II. Needs Assessment Currently, all counties in the ATRC region are served by a 5311 provider. Figure 1 is a map showing 5311 providers in the region. Appendix B contains profiles on each of these providers. Figure 2 is a map depicting the 5310 providers in the region. A profile of each of these providers can be found in Appendix B.

The needs assessment section of this plan can be divided into two parts. The first is a quantitative section in which transit indicators are analyzed to determine areas with a high expected demand for transit service. The second is a compilation of what transit providers and the general public provided regarding the subject of need.

4 Needs Assessment

5 Needs Assessment

6 Needs Assessment

Quantitative Review of Census Bureau Data

ATRC looked at five indicators that contribute to the need of transit by the population. The most current data available was used to look at each of these factors. A table providing the indicators along with the data source is provided below.

Table 1. Transit Indicators and Data Sources

Indicator Source

Population Census 2010

Population Over the Age of 65 Census 2010

Persons Living Below the Poverty Level

American Community Survey Five Year Estimates 2005-2009

Persons with No Access to a Vehicle

American Community Survey Five Year Estimates 2005-2009

Persons with a Disability Census 2000

Population was used as an indicator due to the importance of there being a customer base for transit service. The ATRC region is sparsely populated. Table 2 shows the population density of each of the ten counties in the region. It is apparent by these densities that the population of this area is scattered. Due to area’s small populations and densities, large multi-county transit providers provide services to the area’s counties.

Table 2. Population Density for ATRC Counties

County Population

2010 Square Mileage

Population Density Square Miles

Choctaw 13,859 909 15.2

Clarke 25,883 1230 21.0

Conecuh 13,228 854 15.5

Dallas 43,820 975 44.9

Marengo 21,027 982 21.4

Monroe 23,068 1019 22.6

Perry 10,591 719 14.7

Sumter 13,763 907 15.2

Washington 17,581 1081 16.3

Wilcox 11,670 883 13.2

7 Needs Assessment

Figure 3 is a map showing the population of the ATRC region by Census tract. Tracts including and surrounding the region’s major population centers are unsurprisingly the most populated. These areas would be the areas in which operating a transit system would be the most economically feasible because of a larger customer base. The cities of Demopolis, Marion, Thomasville, Jackson, Monroeville, Livingston, Camden, Selma, and Valley Grande are included in these most populated tracts.

The population over age of 65 is also an important indicator. The elderly are more apt to need transportation to doctor’s appointments and other commitments. Figure 4 is a map showing the percent of the population over the age of 65 by census tract. The areas that show the largest percent of residents over 65 are eastern Perry, southern Dallas, central Marengo, southern Sumter, central Choctaw, and western Clarke counties. It is interesting to note that the tracts with the largest senior populations, with the exception of one, do not coincide with the most populated tracts.

The population reporting a disability is also a transit indicator. These groups are more likely to need assistance with transportation. Figure 5 is a map depicting the percent of the population with a disability. The areas in the region that showed the highest percentage of these populations were northern Sumter, southern Dallas, western Clarke, southern Wilcox, and northwest Monroe counties.

Lack of access to a vehicle is also an important transit indicator. Persons with no access to a personal vehicle are dependent upon transit services. Figure 6 is a map depicting the percent of the population without access to a vehicle. The areas with the highest percentage of persons lacking access to a vehicle are northern Sumter, Selma area, and northwest Monroe counties.

Percentage of persons living in poverty is also a good indicator for the need of transit services. These individuals often cannot afford the cost of a vehicle or more recently the cost of the gasoline needed to make trips. Figure 7 is a map depicting the percent of individuals living below the poverty level. The areas in the region with the highest percentage of individuals living in poverty are east central Monroe, central Wilcox, southern Dallas, southern Sumter, and east Dallas counties.

Closer examination of the maps showed that a number of tracts showed a greater expected demand for transit on a majority of indicators. Below is a synopsis of these areas:

• Tract 9577 in northwest Clarke County showed a high percentage of residents over 65 (20%), persons with no access to a vehicle (5.1%), persons living in poverty (36.5%), and persons with a disability (69%). This tract’s population is under 1,500 persons, so although there is a probably a greater demand for transit services in this area it is also an area where providing these service is less economically feasible. ATRC Rural Transportation is this area’s 5311 provider.

• The same can be said about southern Dallas County. Tract 9970 shows high percentages in all transit indicators with the exception of access to vehicle, but has a very small population. West Alabama Public Transportation is the 5311 provider for this area.

• Tract 9857 in northwest Monroe County has a high percentage of persons without access to a vehicle, persons with a disability, and persons living below the poverty level. ATRC Rural Transportation is this area’s 5311 provider.

8 Needs Assessment

• Tract 9911 in northern Sumter County also has high percentages of persons in need of transit. West Alabama Public Transportation is the 5311 provider for this area.

9 Needs Assessment

10 Needs Assessment

11 Needs Assessment

12 Needs Assessment

13 Needs Assessment

14 Needs Assessment

Review of Needs as Identified by Transit Providers and the General Public

Alabama Tombigbee also solicited the opinions of transit providers and the general public when it came to the needs of the region with regards to transit. The following is a summary of responses:

1. The most commonly identified need was the lack of service on weekends and weekday evenings. Transit providers in the region generally only operate until 4:30 during the week, leaving persons needing transit after this time with no options. There is no simple solution to this problem because the need for these “after hours” services is quite varied and there is no funding available to provide them.

2. A number of areas were identified by the public as lacking transit service, but a 5311 provider exists for each county. All of the providers indicated that they cover the entire counties in which they serve. This identification of a need where the service exists demonstrates that the public needs to be more aware of the transit services available in their areas. Providers contend that the only way for them to know their services are needed is by being contacted, they are unable to provide the service to someone who does not request the service.

3. There was also some concern over the amount providers charged per ride. It was brought up that many of the people that depend on the transit service could not afford the charges they would incur traveling to appointments in places such as Montgomery or Mobile. Providers responded that these charges are cover expenses only, no profit is being made.

4. There were two distinct budget related concerns identified by providers: lack of local match and increasing demand. Lack of local match for transit programs was identified by transit providers as being a significant problem. As budgets tighten, providers fear this problem will only become worse. Match is depended on in order to be able to update fleets and maintain current services.

5. The increasing demand for the system was also a concern due to budget constraints. The demand for transit services is increasing rapidly (especially by the elderly and disabled), while funding to provide these services is decreasing. The need to expand these services to meet the demand was identified.

6. The need to maintain and enhance current services was also stressed. With regards to budget cuts, providers stressed that programs do need to expand but maintaining the current level of service is even more important.

7. The increased demand for job-related transportation was also identified. There are numerous industries location in the region bringing additional job opportunities. Many of these new facilities will draw workforce from multi-county areas leading to the need for better access to transit.

8. The need to provide transportation for out of region trips for medical among other reasons was also identified. Specific groups that would greatly benefit from this would be elderly, disabled, and veterans.

9. Providers also identified the need for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles. These vehicles could be used for a smaller number of passengers. The savings from fuel and overall maintenance would be a great benefit to the providers.

10. The need for access to educational opportunities by transit was also identified as a need.

15 Regional Strategies

III. Regional Strategies The needs assessment section of this plan identified the concerns and issues facing transit service in the Alabama Tombigbee Region. The following is a set of strategies that have been agreed upon by providers, purchasers, local officials. These strategies are not in order of priority.

1. Maintaining and enhancing current 5311 services 2. Expanding basic transit service for rural residents throughout the region 3. Provide affordable transit service for lower income individuals and families 4. Maintaining and enhancing current 5310 services 5. Expanding transit services for the elderly and disabled 6. Maintaining and when warranted expanding 5316 services in Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry,

and Sumter Counties 7. Establishing 5316 programs in Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, Washington, and Wilcox Counties 8. Encourage and support providers applying for New Freedom funds in the ATRC Region 9. Encourage and supporting providers in identifying cost saving options 10. Analyze, evaluate, and implement 5311F (intercity bus) where practicable in the region. 11. Expand or increase access to “out of region” or “out of service area” health care facilities for the

elderly, disabled, and wounded veterans. 12. Expand/Establish transit services to provide better access to job opportunities 13. Expand/Establish transit services to provide better access to educational opportunities such as

community colleges and vocational schools and programs

Maintaining the current transit service in the area and expanding these services was identified as a high priority by all stakeholders. This includes expanding transit options for the elderly, disabled, and lower income. The need to establish more job and vocation access was also identified as a high priority. The remaining strategies were identified as a medium priority by the majority of stakeholders.

16

Appendix A

County Transit Profiles

17 Appendix A- County Transit Profiles

Choctaw County Choctaw County is a rural county in southwest Alabama with a Census 2012 population of 13,859. The county is bordered by Sumter County to the north, Marengo and Clarke (AL) Counties to the east, Washington County to south and Clarke (MS) and Wayne (MS) Counties to the west. The two largest municipalities are the county seat Butler and the Town of Gilbertown. Transit Providers:

• West Alabama Public Transportation. The West Alabama Public Transportation (WAPT) agency is the Section 5311, 5311F, and 5316, and 5317 provider in Choctaw County. WAPT serves five counties in the ATRC region including Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter. WAPT’s office is in Demopolis in Marengo County. WAPT has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WAPT transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. WAPT operates from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and provides limited weekend service. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WAPT offers a Commuter Vanpool Service. The Commuter Vanpool Service is a group of seven to 15 commuters who ride to and from work each day with a member of the group volunteering to drive the vehicle. WAPT averages over 560,000 passenger trips per year. WAPT’s fleet consists of approximately 90 vehicles with capacities ranging from seven to 45 passengers. The fleet includes 10 to 12 wheelchair lift vehicles.

• Butler Cares Butler Cares provides transportation to senior citizens. There are no 5307, 5310 providers in Choctaw County. Transit Purchasing Agencies West Alabama Mental Health purchases transit service in Choctaw County. The WAMH has offices in Butler. Nutrition centers also purchase transit service from WAPT in Choctaw County. Services include the transportation of seniors to senior citizens centers. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients.


Identified gaps in service/unmet needs: • Weekday evenings • Saturdays and Sundays • Need to expand transit programs so more rides are available especially on short notice • Need to expand or establish programs providing rides to work • Need to expand or establish transit programs providing rides to community colleges and

vocational schools Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are Butler, Lisman, and Gilberttown. The most common destinations of these riders are Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Demopolis, and Meridian.


Clarke County Clarke County is a rural county in southwest Alabama with a Census 2012 population of 25,833. The county is bordered by Choctaw and Washington Counties to the West, Marengo County to the North, Monroe and Wilcox Counties to the East, and Baldwin County to the South. The county spans an area of 1,230 square miles. It is the third largest county, with regards to area, in Alabama. Transit Providers:

• Clarke County Association for Retarded Citizens The Clarke County Association for Retarded Citizens receives Section 5310 funds. The Center’s service area is Clarke County. The center provides client based 5310 transportation services seven days a week (Monday through Friday 8-4, except holidays). The Center operates three vehicles that each provides an average of 245 education related trips per year.

• Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems receives Section 5310 funds. This agency is located in Monroeville and provides both general and client based 5310 services. Services are provided Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 A.M. -9:30A.M. and 1:30 P.M. -3:30 P.M.

• Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation. Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation (ATRC) is the Section 5311 provider in Clarke County. ATRC serves four counties in the ATRC region including Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, and Wilcox. ATRC’s main office is in Camden in Wilcox County. The program does have a satellite office located in Grove Hill in Clarke County. ATRC has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. ATRC operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. -4:30 P.M. ATRC transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes.

• City of Jackson (Nutrition Center) The City of Jackson provides transportation for senior citizens participating in the senior nutrition program.

• South Alabama Cares (HIV/AIDS) As stated on their website: “Community AIDS Resources, Education & Support (CARES) is the only agency in Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe, and Washington counties solely dedicated to providing medical and social service support, as well as educational services, for those affected by HIV/AIDS. CARES coordinates a variety of resources to assist everyone affected by this epidemic. Our agency also works aggressively to provide prevention education to the entire area in our efforts to stop the spread of this virus.”


• Capitol Trailways

Capitol Trailways, through a federal grant to ALDOT, provides daily scheduled bus service from Mobile to Tuscaloosa. The service is meant to link passenger s with Amtrak and Greyhound services that are located in Tuscaloosa. Stops in the ATRC region are in Jackson, Grove Hill, Thomasville, Pine Hill, Camden, Selma, and Marion.

There are no 5307 or 5316 providers in Clarke County. Transit Purchasing Agencies The Clarke County DHR is located in the Town of Grove Hill. Its service area is limited to Clarke County. The DHR purchases transit service from ATRC. The DHR uses state DHR funds for its transit purchases. The Grove Hill, Thomasville, and Jackson Nutrition Centers purchase services from ATRC. The Alabama Department of Mental Health and Clarke County dialysis also purchase services from ATRC. ATRC also provides services to individuals within the county. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:

• Weekday evenings • Saturdays and Sundays • Need to expand transit programs so more rides are available especially on short notice • Need to expand or establish programs providing rides to work • Need to expand or establish transit programs providing rides to community colleges and

vocational schools

Origins/Destinations With regards to transit, the majority of riders in the county use the service for medical trips. The provider identified Grove Hill, Thomasville, and Jackson as common origins. With regards to destinations, Grove Hill and Jackson’s medical centers along with the dialysis centers in Jackson and Thomasville are the most common. The majority of county residents travel to Mobile or Meridian for specialized medical care. Thomasville and Jackson are also common destinations for shopping and employment.


Conecuh County Conecuh County is a rural county with a Census 2012 population of 13,228. Conecuh County is bordered by Monroe County to the west, Butler to the north, Covington to the east and Escambia County to the south. The county is largely rural and possesses vast tracts of forestland. The county spans an area of 853 square miles. The City of Evergreen is the most populated city and also the county seat. There are two additional incorporated places Repton and Castleberry. Transit Providers:

• Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems The Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems receives Section 5310 funds. This agency is located in Monroeville and provides both general and client based 5310 services. Services are provided Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 A.M. -9:30A.M. and 1:30 P.M. -3:30 P.M.

• Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation The designated Section 5311 (Nonurbanized Area) public transportation provider in Conecuh County is Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation. ATRC serves four counties in the ATRC region including Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, and Wilcox. ATRC’s main office is in Camden in Wilcox County. ATRC has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. ATRC operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. -4:30 P.M. ATRC transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes.

• Town of Castleberry (Nutrition Center) The Town of Castleberry provides transportation to senior center participants.

• South Alabama Cares (HIV/AIDS) As stated on their website: “Community AIDS Resources, Education & Support (CARES) is the only agency in Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe, and Washington counties solely dedicated to providing medical and social service support, as well as educational services, for those affected by HIV/AIDS. CARES coordinates a variety of resources to assist everyone affected by this epidemic. Our agency also works aggressively to provide prevention education to the entire area in our efforts to stop the spread of this virus.” There are no 5307 or 5316 providers in the Conecuh County. Transit Purchasing Agencies The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical


appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. The Evergreen and Lenox Nutrition Centers purchase services from ATRC. The Georgiana Dialysis Center also purchases services from ATRC. ATRC also provides services to individuals within the county. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools Origins/Destinations With regards to transit, the majority of riders in the county use the service for medical trips. The provider identified Evergreen, Repton, and Castleberry as common origins. With regards to destinations, Evergreen and Mobile are the most common. The majority of county residents travel to Mobile for specialized medical care.


Dallas County Dallas County is the most populated of ATRCs ten counties. The Census 2010 population of the county was 43,820. The County is bordered by Perry and Marengo to the west, Wilcox to the south and Chilton and Autauga to the northeast, and Lowndes to the southeast. The County is 975 square miles, making it the eleventh largest in the state. Transit Providers:

• Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation The Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation receives Section 5310 funds. The Center’s service area is Dallas, Perry, and Wilcox County. The center provides client based 5310 transportation services seven days a week (Monday through Friday 8-4 & random services on weekends). The Center provides an average of 48,086 education related trips per year.

• West Alabama Public Transportation. The West Alabama Public Transportation (WAPT) agency is the Section 5311 provider in Dallas County. WAPT also provides 5311F and 5316 services in Dallas County. WAPT serves five counties in the ATRC region including Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter. WAPT’s office is in Demopolis in Marengo County. WAPT has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WAPT transports clients for medical/dental services, nutrition centers, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. WAPT operates from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and provides limited weekend service. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WAPT offers a Commuter Vanpool Service. The Commuter Vanpool Service is a group of seven to 15 commuters who ride to and from work each day with a member of the group volunteering to drive the vehicle. WAPT averages over 560,000 passenger trips per year. WAPT’s fleet consists of approximately 90 vehicles with capacities ranging from seven to 45 passengers. The fleet includes 10 to 12 wheelchair lift vehicles.

• First Presbyterian Church of Selma (Nutrition Center) The First Presbyterian Church of Selma offers transportation to members of its senior citizen program.




There are no 5307 providers in Dallas County. Transit Purchasing Agencies The Dallas County DHR is located in the City of Selma. Its service area is limited to Dallas County. The DHR purchases transit service from West Alabama Public Transportation. The DHR uses state DHR funds for its transit purchases. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. The Alabama Kidney Foundation and local nursing homes also contract with WAPT to provide transportation to their clients. Greyhound also purchases transit services from West Alabama Public Transportation. WAPT runs a route from Selma to Montgomery to compensate for the loss of greyhound bus service in Selma. Access to Care also purchases services from WAPT. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools

Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are Selma, Orrville, and Marion Junction. The most common destinations of these riders are Birmingham, Montgomery, and Prattville.


Marengo County The population of Marengo County is 21,027 according to the 2010 Census. The county is bordered by Choctaw and Sumter Counties to the East, Greene and Hale Counties to the North, Perry, Dallas, and Wilcox Counties to the East, and Clarke County to the South. The county spans an area of 982 square miles. It is the tenth largest county, with regards to area, in Alabama. The City of Demopolis is the county’s largest city. The City of Linden is the county seat. Transit Providers:

• West Alabama Public Transportation The designated Section 5311 (Nonurbanized Area) public transportation provider in Marengo County is West Alabama Public Transportation. WAPT also provides 5311F, 5317, and 5316 services in Marengo County. WAPT serves five counties in the ATRC region including Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter. WAPT’s office is in Demopolis in Marengo County. WAPT has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WAPT transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. WAPT operates from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and provides limited weekend service. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WAPT offers a Commuter Vanpool Service. The Commuter Vanpool Service is a group of seven to 15 commuters who ride to and from work each day with a member of the group volunteering to drive the vehicle. WAPT averages over 560,000 passenger trips per year. WAPT’s fleet consists of approximately 90 vehicles with capacities ranging from seven to 45 passengers. The fleet includes 10 to 12 wheelchair lift vehicles.

• Kid One Transport System, Inc. Kid One Transport System, Inc. is a non-profit transit provider in Marengo County. Kid One provides medical trips for children, 19 and under, throughout Alabama. The company generally operates Monday through Friday from 4:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. The Kid One office is located in Hoover in Jefferson County. There are no 5307 or 5310 providers in Marengo County. Transit Purchasing Agencies West Alabama Mental Health purchases transit service in Marengo County. The WAMH has offices in Demopolis. Nutrition centers also purchase transit service from WAPT in Marengo County. Services include the transportation of seniors to senior citizens centers. Other transit purchasers include Alabama Southern Community College, Upper Bound, Van Pool users, University of West Alabama, Bryan Whitfield Memorial Hospital, and local nursing homes.


The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools

Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are Demopolis, Linden, and Dixon Mills. The most common destinations of these riders are Tuscaloosa and Birmingham.


Monroe County The population of Monroe County is 23,068 according to the 2010 Census. It is the third most populated county in the ATRC region. The county is bordered by Wilcox County to the north, Butler and Conecuh Counties to the east, Escambia and Baldwin Counties to the south, and Clarke County to the west. The county spans 1,026 square miles. Transit Providers:

• Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems

Southwest Alabama Behavioral Health Care Systems also receives Section 5310 funds. This agency is located in Monroeville and provides both general and client based 5310 services. Services are provided Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 A.M. -9:30A.M. and 1:30 P.M. -3:30 P.M.

• Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation. Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation (ATRC) is the Section 5311 provider in Monroe County. ATRC serves four counties in the ATRC region including Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, and Wilcox. ATRC’s main office is in Camden in Wilcox County. The program does have a satellite office located in Monroeville. ATRC has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. ATRC operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. -4:30 P.M. ATRC transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes.

• South Alabama Cares (HIV/AIDS) As stated on their website: “Community AIDS Resources, Education & Support (CARES) is the only agency in Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe, and Washington counties solely dedicated to providing medical and social service support, as well as educational services, for those affected by HIV/AIDS. CARES coordinates a variety of resources to assist everyone affected by this epidemic. Our agency also works aggressively to provide prevention education to the entire area in our efforts to stop the spread of this virus.”

• Town of Frisco City (Senior Center) The Town of Frisco City provides transportation to participants of its senior citizens program. There are no 5307 or 5316 providers in Monroe County. Transit Purchasing Agencies The Monroe County DHR is located in Monroeville. Its service area is limited to Monroe County. The DHR purchases transit service from ATRC. The DHR uses state DHR funds for its transit purchases.


The Monroeville, Vredenburgh, and Excel Nutrition Centers purchase services from ATRC. ATRC provides seniors transportation to area senior centers. ATRC also provides services to individuals within the county. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools

Origins/Destinations According to the provider common origins include Monroeville, Excel, and Frisco City. Common destinations are Monroeville and Mobile.


Perry County Perry County‘s population is 10,591 according to the 2010 Census. It is bordered by Bibb County to the north, Hale and Marengo Counties to the west, Wilcox County to the south, and Dallas and Chilton Counties to the east. The county is the 28th largest in the state covering 719 square miles. Transit Providers:

• Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation The Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation receives Section 5310 funds. The Center’s service area is Dallas, Perry, and Wilcox County. The center provides client based 5310 transportation services seven days a week (Monday through Friday 8-4 & random services on weekends). The Center provides an average of 48,086 education related trips per year.

• West Alabama Public Transportation. The West Alabama Public Transportation (WAPT) agency is the Section 5311 provider in Perry County. WAPT also offers 5311F and 5316 services in Perry County. WAPT serves five counties in the ATRC region including Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter. WAPT’s office is in Demopolis in Marengo County. WAPT has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WAPT transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. WAPT operates from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and provides limited weekend service. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WAPT offers a Commuter Vanpool Service. The Commuter Vanpool Service is a group of seven to 15 commuters who ride to and from work each day with a member of the group volunteering to drive the vehicle. WAPT averages over 560,000 passenger trips per year. WAPT’s fleet consists of approximately 90 vehicles with capacities ranging from seven to 45 passengers. The fleet includes 10 to 12 wheelchair lift vehicles.

• Kid One Transport System, Inc. Kid One Transport System, Inc. is a non-profit transit provider in Perry County. Kid One provides medical trips for children, 19 and under, throughout Alabama. The company generally operates Monday through Friday from 4:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. The Kid One office is located in Hoover in Jefferson County.

• City of Marion The City of Marion also provides transportation to individuals participating in the senior citizen program.




There are no 5307 providers in Perry County. Transit Purchasing Agencies The Perry County DHR is located in the City of Marion. Its service area is limited to Perry County. The DHR purchases transit service from West Alabama Public Transportation. The DHR uses state DHR funds for its transit purchases. Nutrition centers also purchase transit service from WAPT in Perry County. Services include the transportation of seniors to senior citizens centers. Local nursing homes also purchase transit services from WAPT. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Access to Care also purchases services from WAPT. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools

Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are Marion, Uniontown, and Sprott. The most common destinations of these riders are Selma, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, and Birmingham.


Sumter County The 2010 Census lists Sumter County’s population as 13,763. The county is bordered by Choctaw County to the South, Marengo and Greene Counties to the East, Pickens County to the North and Mississippi Counties Kemper and Lauderdale to the West. The Tombigbee River runs along the county’s eastern border. The county spans an area of 907 square miles. It is the fourteenth largest county, with regards to area, in Alabama. Transit Providers:

• West Alabama Public Transportation. The West Alabama Public Transportation (WAPT) agency is the Section 5311 provider in Sumter County. WAPT also provides 5311F,5316, and 5317 services in Sumter County. WAPT serves five counties in the ATRC region including Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, and Sumter. WAPT’s office is in Demopolis in Marengo County. WAPT has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WAPT transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. WAPT operates from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and provides limited weekend service. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WAPT offers a Commuter Vanpool Service. The Commuter Vanpool Service is a group of seven to 15 commuters who ride to and from work each day with a member of the group volunteering to drive the vehicle. WAPT averages over 560,000 passenger trips per year. WAPT’s fleet consists of approximately 90 vehicles with capacities ranging from seven to 45 passengers. The fleet includes 10 to 12 wheelchair lift vehicles.

• Kid One Transport System, Inc. Kid One Transport System, Inc. is a non-profit transit provider in Sumter County. Kid One provides medical trips for children, 19 and under, throughout Alabama. The company generally operates Monday through Friday from 4:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. The Kid One office is located in Hoover in Jefferson County.

• City of York The City of York also provides transportation to participants of its nutrition center. There are no 5307 or 5310 providers in Sumter County. Transit Purchasing Agencies West Alabama Mental Health purchases transit service in Sumter County. The WAMH has offices in Livingston. Nutrition centers also purchase transit service from WAPT in Choctaw County. Services include the transportation of seniors to senior citizens centers. Other transit purchasers are Sumter County DHR, Sumter County Industrial Board, Upper Bound University of West Alabama, and local nursing homes.


The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are York, Livingston, and Cuba. The most common destinations of these riders are Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Demopolis, and Meridian.


Washington County Washington County’s population was 17,581 according to the 2010 Census. The County is bordered by Choctaw County to the north, Clarke County to the east, Mobile County to the south, and Wayne (MS) and Greene (MS) Counties to the east. The County covers 1,081 square miles. Transit Providers:

• Wagarville Nutrition Center The Wagarville Nutrition Center provides transportation to senior citizens centers to Area Agency on Aging clients.

• Washington County Rural Transportation. Washington County Rural Transportation (WCRT) is the Section 5311 provider in Washington County. The provider offer services exclusively in Washington County. The WAPT office is in Chatom in Washington County. The service has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. WCRT transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. The WCRT operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The service also offers a dialysis route on Saturdays and Sundays. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes. WCRT provides medical related trips and work related trips weekly. It also provides approximately eight recreation related trips a year. The WCRT’s fleet consists of approximately seven vehicles with capacities ranging from 10 to 15 passengers.

• South Alabama Cares (HIV/AIDS) As stated on their website: “Community AIDS Resources, Education & Support (CARES) is the only agency in Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe, and Washington counties solely dedicated to providing medical and social service support, as well as educational services, for those affected by HIV/AIDS. CARES coordinates a variety of resources to assist everyone affected by this epidemic. Our agency also works aggressively to provide prevention education to the entire area in our efforts to stop the spread of this virus.” Identified gaps in service:

• After 4 P.M. weekdays • Saturdays and Sundays • Need to expand transit programs so more rides are available especially on short notice • Need to expand or establish programs providing rides to work • Need to expand or establish transit programs providing rides to community colleges and

vocational schools


Origins/Destinations • According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are

Chatom, McIntosh, and the northern part of the county. The most common destinations of these riders are Chatom, and locations in Mobile, Clarke, and Choctaw Counties.


Wilcox County Wilcox County’s population is 11,670 according to the 2010 Census. The county is bordered by Dallas County to the north, Marengo and Clarke Counties to the west, Monroe County to the south, and Butler and Lowndes Counties to the east. The county covers an area of 883 square miles. It is the seventeenth largest county, with regards to area, in Alabama. Transit Providers:

• Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation. Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation (ATRC) is the Section 5311 provider in Conecuh County. ATRC serves four counties in the ATRC region including Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, and Wilcox. ATRC’s main office is in Camden in Wilcox County. ATRC has no age or income limitations and customer charges vary. ATRC operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. -4:30 P.M. ATRC transports clients for medical/dental services, recreational activities, personal business, employment, and other services. The service has several fixed routes but also offers demand-response routes.

• Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation

The Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation receives Section 5310 funds. The Center’s service area is Dallas, Perry, and Wilcox County. The center provides client based 5310 transportation services seven days a week (Monday through Friday 8-4 & random services on weekends). The Center provides an average of 48,086 education related trips per year.



There are no 5307 or 5316 providers in Wilcox County.

Transit Purchasing Agencies ATRC provides seniors transportation to area senior centers. The Wilcox Dialysis Center also purchases services from ATRC. ATRC also provides services to individuals within the county. The Wilcox County DHR is located in the Town of Camden. Its service area is limited to Wilcox County. The DHR purchases transit service from ATRC. The DHR uses state DHR funds for its transit purchases. The Alabama Medicaid Agency serves all of Alabama. The agency offers non-emergency transit service to full-covered Medicaid beneficiaries for Medicaid covered medical


appointments. The agency provides vouchers to its clients to purchase transit service. The vouchers can be used for reimbursement for private vehicle use. Most of the vouchers in Alabama are issued for this type of reimbursement. The agency requires that public transit services be used instead of for-profit companies if the service meets the needs of its clients. Identified gaps in service/unmet needs:


vocational schools Origins/Destinations According to providers in the county, the most common areas of origin for riders are Camden, Pine Hill, and the western part of the county. The most common destinations of these riders are Birmingham, Selma, Montgomery, and Camden.

37

Appendix B

Transit Provider Profiles

38 Appendix B-Transportation Provider Profiles

Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Rural Transportation

107 Broad Street Camden, AL 36726 Phone: 334-682-4234 Fax: 334-682-4205 Transportation Director: Mark Curl Counties Served: Clarke, Conecuh, Monroe, Wilcox Services Provided: General 5311- anyone in rural communities Age/Income Limitations: None Days and Hours of Service: Monday – Friday (8 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.) Number of Annual Trips Provided: 78,461 Vehicle Inventory:

• (26) 15 Passenger Vans Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 14

Alabam

a Tom

bigbee R

ural T

ransportation


Cahaba Center for Mental Health 417 Medical Center Parkway Selma, AL 36701 Phone: 334-418-6500 Fax: 334-872-2084 Contact Person: Lafon M. Barlow, Executive Director Counties Served: Dallas, Wilcox, Perry Services Provided: Client based 5310 –only serves specific clients Age/Income Limitations: MI/MR/SA Days and Hours of Service: All days of the week and all hours of the day- used at night for emergency trips to hospital as well. Monday- Friday all vans run morning and afternoon routes for day treatment programs for clients with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and problems with substance abuse. The vans also transport approximately 135 clients who live in the residential group homes and apartments to medical appointments and weekend recreation/church activities. Vehicle Inventory:

• (15) Fifteen Passenger Vans

• (5) ADA 12 Passenger Vans Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 5

Cah

aba Cen

ter for Men

tal Health


Clarke County Arc, Inc.

P.O. Box 100 501 Forest Avenue Jackson, AL 36545 Phone: 251-246-3000 Fax: 251-246-3098 Contact Person: Terry Lynn Pezent, Executive Director Counties Served: Clarke Services Provided:

• Client based 5310 –only serves specific clients

• General 5310-anyone who meets elderly and disabled requirements Age/Income Limitations: Elderly- Disabled Days and Hours of Service: Monday – Friday (8 A.M. – 4 P.M.) Number of Annual Trips Provided by Type:

• Education- 15,100

• Other- 18,375 Vehicle Inventory:

• (2) 15 Passenger Vans

• (3) 10 Passenger Vans Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 3

Clark

e Cou

nty

AR

C, In

c.

41 Appendix B -Transportation Provider Profiles

Southwest Alabama Behavioral Healthcare Systems

328 West Claiborne Street Monroeville, AL 36460 Phone: 251-575-4203 Fax: 251-575-4837 Contact Person: Vince Smith Counties Served: Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe Services Provided:

• General 5310-anyone who meets elderly and disability requirements Age/Income Limitations: MH/MR Days and Hours of Service: Monday – Friday (7:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M.) Vehicle Inventory:

• (5) 15 Passenger Vans

• (1) 8 Passenger Van

• (2) 10 Passenger Modified Bus ADA Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 3

Sou

thw

est Alabam

a Beh

avioral Health

care Sy

stems


Washington County Rural Public Transportation 234 Hearn Drive Chatom, AL 36518 Phone: 251-847-2970 Fax: 251-847-2971 Contact Person: Christy Sullivan Counties Served: Washington Services Provided:

• General 5311-anyone in rural communities Age/Income Limitations: None Days and Hours of Service: Monday – Friday (8 A.M. – 4 P.M.) Number of Annual Trips Provided by Type:

• Medical – 672

• Work – 130

• Recreation – 8

• Other – 96

• Contract Route – 3 routes/ 5 days a week Vehicle Inventory:

• (1) 14 Passenger Van with 1 Wheelchair Station

• (1) 13 Passenger Van with No Wheelchair Station

• (2) 15 Passenger Vans with No Wheelchair Stations (spares)

• (2) 10 Passenger Vans with 3 Wheelchair Stations

• (1) 10 Passenger Van with 1 Wheelchair Station Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 4

Wash

ing

ton C

oun

ty R

ural P

ublic T

ransportation


West Alabama Public Transportation 500 East Washington Street Demopolis, AL 36732 Phone: 334-289-5789 Fax: 334-289-1198 Contact Person: Bobby Armstead Counties Served: Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, Perry, Sumter Services Provided:

• Section 5311- anyone in rural communities

• Section 5311 F-Intercity Bus

• Section 5316-JARC

• Section 5317-New Freedom Age/Income Limitations: None Days and Hours of Service: Monday – Friday (8 A.M. – 6 P.M.) Weekends (scheduled only) Vehicle Inventory: (55) 15 Passenger Vans (20) 25-45 Passenger Buses (6) 1-7 Passenger Vans Number of Vehicles with Lifts: 20

West A

labama P

ublic T

ransportation

44

Appendix C

Planned Vehicle Acquisitions

45

Agency Year of Purchase

Make/ Model

Bus or Van

Fuel Type

# of Seats

Wheelchair Lift (yes or No)

# of Wheelchair Positions

Projected Funding Source

Lease or Purchase

New Service Replacement Bus/Van

Project Type


2012 Goshen Bus Diesel 15 No N/A 5311 Purchase Replacement Continuation




2012 Goshen Bus Diesel 10 Yes 2 5311 Purchase Replacement Continuation

























Cahaba Center 2012 Ford E-350 Van Unleaded 15 No N/A 5310 Purchase Replacement Continuation

46


Make/ Model

Bus or Van

Fuel Type

# of Seats




Lease or Purchase


Project Type





Cahaba Center 2012 Ford E-350 Van Unleaded 12 Yes 2 5310 Purchase Replacement Continuation












Cahaba Center 2016 Ford E-350 Van Unleaded 12 Yes 2 5310 Purchase Replacement Continuation

Clarke County ARC 2012 Ford E-350 Van Unleaded 15 No N/A 5310 Purchase Replacement Continuation

Clarke County ARC 2014 Ford E-350 Van Unleaded 15 No N/A 5310 Purchase Replacement Continuation

Southwest Alabama Mental Health 2011 Ford Starcraft Bus Unleaded 15 No N/A 5310 Purchase New Continuation





West Alabama Health Services, Inc. d/b/a West Alabama Public Transportation

2012 Goshen Van Diesel 10 Yes 8 5311 Purchase Replacement Continuation

47


Make/ Model

Bus or Van

Fuel Type

# of Seats




Lease or Purchase


Project Type












2013 Goshen Van Diesel 15 No N/A 5311 Purchase Replacement Continuation









48


Make/ Model

Bus or Van

Fuel Type

# of Seats




Lease or Purchase


Project Type





















49


Make/ Model

Bus or Van

Fuel Type

# of Seats




Lease or Purchase


Project Type









Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission

107 Broad Street

Camden, AL 36726

human services transportation plan · 3 needs assessment ii. needs assessment currently, all...

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