For immediate release: Jan. 18, 2014
Press release by:
Stacy Crivello, Chair, Housing, Human Services and Transportation Committee
Public input sought on County’s paratransit services
WAILUKU, Hawaii – The Housing, Human Services and Transportation Committee will consider the effectiveness of existing bus routes and schedules, equipment needs, funding requirements and other concerns related to the County’s paratransit services on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 1:30 p.m., Committee Chair Stacy Crivello announced today.
In 2013, Maui Economic Opportunity was awarded a 5-year, $2.5 million contract and is serving 756 paratransit clients. The County had previously provided the service by contract through Roberts Hawaii.
Several residents compared the differences between Roberts Hawaii and MEO and noted some challenges with new requirements.
“I met with MEO to address concerns regarding the new paratransit scheduling,” Committee Chair Crivello said. “It is my hope that they provide a report on improvements made at this meeting.”
The Maui Bus public transit program consists of a fixed route bus system, a commuter service and a complementary paratransit service in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The latter service is provided by MEO.
MEO is currently serving close to 4,000 clients and will reach a milestone of 50 years in service next year.
The meeting agenda is posted online at www.mauicounty.gov/committees/hht.
Testimony will be accepted in the Council Chamber and at Council district offices in Hana, Lanai and Molokai. Written testimony may be submitted via email to hht.committee@mauicounty.us.
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