GPMTD extends six-month pilot paratransit service

Jan. 31, 2023

Washington, Ill., was approved to continue funding the project, and it is also partially being funded by section 5310 Transportation Assistance Grant Program from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The Greater Peoria Mass Transit District (GPMTD) is extending its six-month pilot paratransit service in Washington, Ill., for its underserved urban area on Feb. 1, 2023. The city of Washington was approved to continue funding the project, which it is also partially being funded by section 5310 Transportation Assistance Grant Program from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The funds from the previous six-month pilot were not exhausted, which allowed for the extension of service. The GPMTD paratransit service, CityLift, will continue to operate this service for individuals aged 18 to 59 based on their mobility challenges and disability.

Individuals needing this service are still required to complete and submit a two-page application to Washington Township that requires a medical professional to sign off, verifying their handicap and need for paratransit service.

“We are pleased that funding is available to continue this pilot project to provide CityLift door-to-door paratransit service within the Washington urban area. It is our goal to grow the number of passengers using this service to increase the probability of receiving additional funding to continue offering the service beyond the next 12 months,” said CityLink General Manager Doug Roelfs.

This pilot paratransit service will be evaluated to determine the feasibility and demand to continue providing the service.