Transit Plus by Transdev | Milwaukee County Paratransit Services

- 1942 N 17th St, Milwaukee, WI 53205

For many residents of Milwaukee County, particularly those with disabilities or conditions that limit their ability to use fixed-route public transportation, reliable and accessible mobility is a cornerstone of daily life. This vital service is provided by Transit Plus by Transdev, Milwaukee County Paratransit Services. Far from a typical car rental agency, Transit Plus offers a specialized, door-to-door, shared-ride transportation program designed to ensure that eligible individuals can access essential services, employment, education, and social activities throughout Milwaukee County. It represents a crucial link for many Wisconsinites to participate fully in their community, offering a lifeline of independence and connectivity.

Transit Plus operates under the umbrella of Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) and is provided by Transdev, a global leader in mobility solutions. The service is fundamentally different from standard car rentals; it is a paratransit service, meaning it complements the fixed-route bus system by providing comparable transportation for those who cannot utilize it due to a disability. While challenges can arise, as with any large-scale transportation system, the core mission of Transit Plus remains focused on delivering accessible, safe, and reliable rides to those who need it most, helping them navigate Milwaukee County for any trip purpose.

Transit Plus by Transdev | Milwaukee County Paratransit Services is located at 1942 N 17th St, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA. This administrative office serves as the central hub for eligibility applications, ticket purchases, and direct inquiries regarding the paratransit program. Situated within Milwaukee, the location is accessible for those who need to visit in person for application processes or to purchase tickets. However, it's important to understand that this is not a walk-in location for vehicle rental or immediate ride scheduling; all transportation services are pre-arranged and dispatched from operational facilities.

The accessibility of the service itself extends far beyond the physical office. Transit Plus operates throughout all of Milwaukee County, ensuring that eligible riders can travel to any destination within the county's boundaries. This expansive service area is crucial for individuals who rely on the program for medical appointments, work, shopping, or social engagements. While the physical address is in Milwaukee, the actual "location" of the service is wherever an eligible rider needs to go within the county. The service is available year-round, with operating hours comparable to MCTS fixed-route buses, offering widespread coverage and accessibility for its users.

Transit Plus by Transdev offers a range of services specifically tailored to meet the transportation needs of eligible individuals with disabilities. Key services include:

• Door-to-Door Service: Drivers provide assistance from the first exterior door of the pick-up location to the first exterior door of the destination, including help with boarding and leaving vehicles.
• Shared-Ride Transportation: The service operates on a shared-ride basis, meaning multiple passengers going in the same general direction may ride together, similar to public bus routes.
• Advanced Reservations: Rides must typically be scheduled in advance, usually between 1 to 7 days prior to the desired trip, though a "Same Day" app may offer limited last-minute options for urgent medical/employment rides.
• Eligibility-Based Access: Service is exclusively for individuals who have a disability that prevents them from independently using the fixed-route MCTS bus system, requiring an application and approval process.
• ADA Accessible Vans: The fleet consists of ADA-compliant vehicles, including vans equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
• Personal Care Assistant (PCA) Travel: Eligible riders can bring a PCA at no additional charge if their eligibility status indicates this need. Companions can also ride for the same fare as the eligible rider.
• Service Animal Accommodation: Service animals are permitted on board, provided they are on a leash and under control.
• Assistance with Parcels: Drivers can assist riders with carrying up to two parcels weighing no more than 40 pounds total, on and off the van.
• Fare Payment Options: Fares for a one-way trip are typically $4.00, payable with exact cash or pre-purchased Transit Plus tickets.
• Confirmation Calls: The service often provides confirmation calls the night before and on the day of pick-up.

Transit Plus by Transdev, while a critical service, has several features and highlights that are consistently noted by its users, reflecting both its strengths and areas where improvements are sought:

• Reliability for Scheduled Pick-ups: Many users report that the service is "very reliable for weekly pickups," with consistent on-time performance for pre-scheduled, recurring rides.
• Pre-Trip Confirmations: The system of calling the night before and again before the pick-up on the day of the ride is a highly appreciated feature, providing peace of mind to riders and their families.
• Dedicated to Accessible Travel: The core mission of providing door-to-door, ADA-compliant transportation for individuals who cannot use fixed-route buses is a fundamental strength, promoting independence for many.
• Supportive Driver Assistance: Drivers are trained to assist riders with boarding, leaving vehicles, and navigating obstacles like single steps, which is vital for many users.

However, customer feedback also highlights areas for improvement. Some reviews indicate that:

• System Downtime Issues: There have been instances where the dispatch or scheduling system experienced outages, leading to significant delays and late arrivals, which is "unacceptable" for critical appointments.
• Need for Better Backup Plans: Users express a strong desire for more robust backup plans during system failures to prevent riders from being stranded or severely delayed.
• Inconsistent Driver Professionalism: While many drivers are helpful, isolated incidents of rude or disrespectful behavior from certain drivers have been reported, impacting the customer experience.
• On-Board Wait Times and Routing Concerns: As a shared-ride service, travel times can sometimes be extended, and some riders have voiced concerns about inefficient routing that leads to long on-board times or crisscrossing the county.

These points suggest that while the service provides essential mobility and can be highly reliable for routine trips, there are ongoing challenges related to operational consistency and individual driver conduct that Transdev continues to address in partnership with MCTS.

For inquiries regarding Transit Plus by Transdev | Milwaukee County Paratransit Services, including eligibility, booking, or general information, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1942 N 17th St, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA
• Phone: (414) 343-1700
• Mobile Phone: +1 414-343-1700

For specific ride scheduling, customers are typically advised to call Transdev directly at (414) 817-9860 during reservation hours (usually 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 7 days a week). The administrative office at N 17th St also handles in-person ticket purchases during business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday). It's always best to consult the official MCTS Transit Plus website or contact the main phone number for the most current information regarding eligibility, booking procedures, and any service updates.

For eligible locals in Wisconsin, specifically those in Milwaukee County who cannot use the fixed-route bus system due to a disability, Transit Plus by Transdev is not merely a car rental service; it is an indispensable public utility that provides fundamental mobility and access. Its suitability for locals is paramount because it fills a critical gap in transportation for a vulnerable population, enabling them to lead more independent and engaged lives within their community. Whether it's for crucial medical appointments, getting to work or educational classes, grocery shopping, or connecting with friends and family, Transit Plus offers a vital lifeline.

While challenges occasionally arise, as highlighted by some user reviews regarding system issues or individual driver conduct, the consistent reliability for many routine pickups and the dedicated door-to-door service remain invaluable. The service's commitment to accommodating wheelchairs and providing assistance is a foundational benefit. For Milwaukee County residents navigating life with disabilities, Transit Plus is a necessary and supportive resource, fostering greater independence and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to move freely and participate fully in the vibrant life of our Wisconsin communities.

Transit Plus by Transdev | Milwaukee County Paratransit Services

1942 N 17th St, Milwaukee, WI 53205, USA