ADA Accessibility

Accessibility
In cooperation with the Americans with Disabilities Act most B.C. Transit fixed route buses are accessible to people using mobility aide devices and those who have difficulty climbing stairs and those using service animals. For those living in the urban core and who are unable to use the fixed route system due to medical disability, B.C. Lift is also available.

Passengers with disabilities can board a bus at most bus stops in the area. B.C. Transit currently uses two models of buses on our fixed route system, both of which are wheelchair accessible. The Orion 500 series buses use a staircase that collapses, creating a platform to raise the passenger using a mobility aide device. The Orion 800 series use a ramp that lowers. The driver can lower the front end of both models to ease accessibility through the front doors. Once a passenger using a mobility aide is on the bus, they must position themselves in the designated area, lock their wheels and the driver will secure the mobility aide device with straps anchored to the bus. Not all types of mobility aid models will fit on our buses, the specifications are:

Width - cannot exceed 30 inches

Length - cannot exceed 48 inches (measured two inches above the ground)

Weight - cannot weigh more than 600 pounds when occupied

Evaluation of mobility aid devices and specific questions can be answered by calling the B.C. Transit office at 607.763.4435.

Kneelers and Ramps:
Our drivers will lower ramps and kneelers upon request for easier accessibility. You do not need to show a Broome County Handicap Identification Card to have the bus lowered.

Service Animals:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are allowed on buses. Service animals must be under control by the person with disabilities at all times, and must not occupy a seat and must either sit on the floor, or on the persons lap. B.C. Transit does have a right to ask the owner to remove the service animal from the bus if 1) the animal is out of control and the animal's owner does not take effective action to control it, or (2) poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Please note . . .

• There are designated areas on the bus for passengers with disabilities using mobility aids. Such passengers have priority in these seating locations at all times.
• Mobility aids must not block the aisle or interfere with the safety of other passengers. Wheelchair wheels must be locked.
• Reduced rates are available for persons with disabilities. With a Broome County Handicap Identification card, a 31 day pass is $22 and fare is $0.50 during off peak hours. Find more>>>

More information about services available for people with disabilities in Broome County can be found at the Southern Tier Independence Center

For any questions, comments, concerns or suggestions about our services or webpage please use our Customer Survey Form. We would love to hear from you.