For Immediate Lease Media Contact: Laura Koprowski, Chief Communications and Customer Experience Officer lkoprowski@tarta.com Office: 419.245.5219 Mobile: 419.764.5951
TARTA Statement in Response to Customer Incident on the Authority’s Paratransit Service
August 14, 2020
The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) has a 30-year commitment of providing mobility services to those with disabilities and providing these individuals with a chance to connect with their community, achieve independence and accessibility, and enjoy a better quality of life. We take the responsibility to move the most vulnerable in our community very seriously.
The incident that occurred on Thursday, August 13 was unacceptable. The driver was immediately suspended, and a full investigation is underway.
Annually, our Toledo Area Regional Paratransit Service (TARPS) provides over 270,000 rides in a safe manner following established protocols and using specialized software. For example, TARPS drivers are required to conduct pre-and post-trip inspections of the interior and exterior of their vehicles. We utilize vehicle technology software to track when passengers are picked up and dropped off.
TARTA has great compassion for our customers with disabilities. We will not tolerate anything less and we certainly will not accept any errors that jeopardize the safety and well-being of our customers.
About TARTA
The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides a vital link in the Toledo metro area to jobs, education, health care and other destinations. It enables everyone in our community to have access to transportation regardless of their age, race, physical ability or economic background. TARTA is underway with exploring and introducing new initiatives and service options that will enhance convenience and customer experience while moving Toledo into the future of public transit.
