Town of Paradise Launches Accessible Transit Pilot Project

Today, the Town of Paradise launched an Accessible Transit Pilot Project which offers a free taxi service within the municipal boundary for eligible residents. The announcement was made today by Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Laurie, who was joined by Paradise resident and accessibility advocate Cindy Antle. 

“We are excited to launch this pilot project for our Town,” said Deputy Mayor Laurie. “Making Paradise inclusive and accessible for all residents is a goal in our strategic plan, Your Paradise – Plan 2022, and as a Council we are committed to making the necessary investments to do just that.”

Starting July 5, Paradise residents with a disability can apply to the Town to participate in the program. To be eligible, residents must have either a physical, cognitive, sensory, or visual limitation, and must be assessed by health practitioners at Body Quest Health and Wellness Centre. The cost of the health assessment is covered by the Town. Residents who meet the criteria will be registered in the program, enabling them to avail directly of taxi service from Newfound Cabs. The cost is fully covered for use within the Town boundaries. If a participant wants to travel outside Paradise, the Town will cover the portion of the cost within the municipality. 

The pilot program was developed with input from the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities Newfoundland and Labrador (COD-NL), feedback from a focus group of Paradise residents and / or a family member residing in Paradise who have a disability, and through research of best practices being used by municipalities across the country. The Town is investing $50,000 in the initiative.

“We certainly appreciate all those who participated in the focus group and thank them for sharing their input and ideas with us so we could develop a pilot project for our Town. Over the coming months, we will monitor and evaluate this program, and we want those who use the program to share their experience and ideas with us. We are committed to continuous improvement and working to make Paradise accessible and inclusive for all,” said Deputy Mayor Laurie.

Information on the Accessible Transit Pilot Project, including application forms, are available at www.paradise.ca/accessibletransit

Media Contact
Diane Keough, Communications Manager, Town of Paradise
dkeough@paradise.ca
709.769.4212 (mobile)