Citilink receives $50,000 grant by AWS Foundation for new paratransit software

Citilink has been awarded a $50,000 grant by AWS Foundation to help with the purchase of new paratransit software for Access riders. The software will provide riders with an app on their phones to make it easier to schedule and track their rides.

“We’re excited for the opportunity to update our technology to provide a more efficient service to our riders that gives them more transparency and real-time location updates of their bus," said Pam Schieber, Citilink’s director of operations.

This $50,000 grant will cover 25 percent of the cost of the software, which will allow Access riders the freedom to book their own trips. It will also provide real-time data and notifications for both drivers and riders alike, as well as create new pathways for Citilink to better serve its community.

“We’re happy with this new scheduling software to be able to provide our riders with an app that grants them more freedom to schedule their rides at any time of the day,” said Tyierra Martin, Citilink customer service/paratransit mobility manager.

AWS Foundation’s mission is to help children and adults with enduring intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities live as independently as possible. With one of their priority initiatives being to expand transportation, the grant allows for the pursuit of opportunities for accessible and affordable transportation to increase access to locations throughout the community for these individuals.

“Citilink Access services can be the primary mode of transportation for some with disabilities,” said AWS Foundation CEO Patti Hays. “This software increases the accessibility of this vital service, thus enhancing independence for the riders.”