MetroAccess (Metro), a division of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is reviewing its ridership eligibility and may be making some changes to its policy as early as July 2010. This modification will affect commuters who primarily depend on the system for doctor appointments, personal errands and the like. Established to help physically-challenged persons with transportation in sections of DC and some suburban areas of both MD and VA, Metro is beginning to question whether its purpose is being used in an efficient manner.
WMATA presently grants commuter qualification if a personal need is expressed, so the process is rather simple. And when this is established, a new customer becomes a part of the database and then given access to services such as the company's door-to-door privileges, free and discounted rates and rides, scheduled time pickups, and seven days a week schedule, to name a few.
However, there are no current guidelines in place that allows the department to determine if a commuter meets the criteria for public service except by one stating there is a disability. So this approach is what the department wants to change to better evaluate and manage their budget while still helping those who seek public support.
Yet, the December 2008 public e-announcement about ridership increase may be the premise for the turn of events.
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