In ribbon-cutting ceremonies Feb. 23, Valley Metro in Phoenix marked the completion of its Mobility Center: a new regional facility whose purpose is to help make travel easier for thousands of passengers who may need additional assistance navigating the transit system. The system provides service to more than 11,000 people who are eligible for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) designation, allowing them reduced fares on the bus and light rail system and access to paratransit service, or Dial-a-Ride.

“Our goal was to build a facility that simulated our actual transit environment in the metro Phoenix area,” said David Boggs, Valley Metro executive director. “The center, which is modeled after similar structures in Los Angeles, Orange County, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City, allows passengers the opportunity to try transit before they actually ride to see if it’s feasible for them.”

He stated: “The Mobility Center is a goal realized, but only the first of many to provide a more efficient way of providing transit and alternative travel for those who have to rely on it most.”

Valley Metro designed the Mobility Center as an important first step in developing a regional paratransit system for metro Phoenix. The customer can navigate a mock streetscape and transit system in the mobility assessment area, known as the Transit Walk, to lessen the intimidation of being a new rider.

A paratransit technical advisory committee and a regional paratransit stakeholders group considered input on the design of the center. Members of the disability community volunteered to participate in the interview and mobility assessment experience in advance of opening as a way to prepare for implementation.

Innovative Design
The design of the Mobility Center incorporates a full-size 40-foot bus and bus shelter set against a backdrop of life-size photo murals depicting various transportation modes including light rail. The assessment center for ADA certification offers various pavement and sidewalk treatments, providing a realistic environment for navigating local communities.

Riders seeking ADA certification will participate in a customer-focused in-person process. The intent is to improve how evaluations occur for ADA service and to better match passengers with transit needs. It is anticipated that Valley Metro will process 400 to 500 ADA eligibility determinations each month at the facility.

Valley Metro Board Chair Shana Ellis, a member of the Tempe City Council, pointed out that the new facility also will serve as home base for the agency’s travel training programs. The agency used the results of a regional paratransit study in creating the mobility center and its amenities.

“We realize that the possibilities of this facility are many and will provide a professional and caring approach for new and renewed ADA applications,” Ellis said, adding: “With this facility, all steps of eligibility will occur here and will create a simpler process for each person, while allowing for greater care and accuracy.”

The center opened for business March 1. It also houses more than 60 agency employees in the customer service call center and the ADA area.

Operation of the facility is funded by Proposition 400, the regional, half-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2004 that helps build and provide transportation projects in Maricopa County.