Guide to Accessible Transportation in Bristol and Plymouth Counties (Massachusetts)

Resource Guide 7

By:

Donna Kulpa

Originally published: 11/2004

Suggested audiences:

This guide concentrates on transportation operating through the Greater Attleboro/Plymouth/Onset and New Bedford/Fall River areas of Southeastern Massachusetts. Thirty-five private transportation providers, four public transit providers, three paratransit providers, and two commuter rail systems are included, as well as nine hotels/motels. All information is based on answers provided from telephone surveys of the service providers involved. In case there have been changes since October 2004, or to be certain of information provided, we encourage tourists to call ahead when making travel arrangements.

Information compiled by Donna Kulpa as part of the Barbara Wilensky Gopen Memorial Fellowship.

The fellowship is sponsored by:

Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council
Institute for Community Inclusion
Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center
Disability Law Center

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION-MASSACHUSETTS

ATTLEBORO-BASED

Cricket Car Service

Locations service provided: All of Southeastern Mass. including Boston and Worcester as well as Providence, RI

Times available: Seven days/week on a 24-hour schedule by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks. If you wish to place a foldable wheelchair into the trunk, please note you must request the large vehicle and allow 48 hours' advance notice. A walker may be taken. If needed, company is willing to call an area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide with 48 hours' notice.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner: Kevin Harding at 508-223-3133

Houle's City Cabs

Locations service provided: In communities throughout Attleboro, North Attleboro, Plainville, Norton, and Rehoboth. Also, Boston, Providence, or Worcester.

Times available: Seven days/week from 6 a.m. to midnight

Cost: $4 for the first mile calculated from Attleboro Center or North Attleboro and $2 per mile thereafter with no extra charge for a group as of Sept. 16, 2004

Accessible features: Walker or guide companion allowed

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-222-5000

Owner: Dennis O'Donnell

BRIDGEWATER-BASED

A & A Metro Transportation

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass.; travel to Worcester, Providence, Boston, and points north of Boston

Times available: Seven days/week, 24 hours by appointment

Cost: Call for a town-by-town rate

Accessible features: All accommodations require 48 hours' notice unless there is an emergency: operator-controlled (kids') safety door and windows; wheelchair lift; can take foldable wheelchair in taxi or trunk. One hour's notice needed to bring a walker or other equipment to local areas, 24 hours' to travel into Boston. PCA/guide companion can travel for free.

Additional comments: Limousines, sedans, corporate van, or bus; shuttle or charter service

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-697-0017 or toll-free at 800-437-3844

Owner: Bill Arrighi

Bill's Taxi

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass.; travel to Worcester, Providence, Boston, and points north of Boston

Times available: Monday - Thursday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Sunday from 12 noon - 7 p.m.

Cost: Call for a town-by-town rate

Additional comments: Company has a division that utilizes accessible vehicles for medical and school transports.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-697-4488 or 508-697-4343

Owner: Bill Arrighi

CARVER-BASED

All American Taxi

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. to Boston, Worcester, Providence, or New York

Times available: Seven days/week, 24 hours by appointment

Cost: Call for rates-note there is no added cost for individuals transported on the same point-to-point basis

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks. Foldable wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment may be taken. With 48 hours' notice, company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide.

Additional comments: Taxis with access to minivan

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-759-4281

Owner: Mario Palmer

Krystal Carriage Limousine

Locations service provided: Areas of Southeastern Mass., Boston, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: When booking please mention if you wish to place a foldable wheelchair in the trunk or bring a walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With one week's notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide if needed.

Additional comments: Passenger vans

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact & owner: Angela Philhower at 508-866-4119

DARTMOUTH-BASED

Hollywood Limousine

Locations service provided: Southeastern Mass. to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week, 24 hours by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks. Mention if placing a foldable wheelchair or walker into the trunk.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner: Paul Nunes at 508-984-5823

DIGHTON-BASED

Urban Transportation & Tours, Inc.

Locations service provided: Throughout all of Southeastern Mass., Boston, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Wheelchair lift vans are available upon request and a walker, equipment, or guide companion may be taken at no extra charge

Additional comments: Wheelchair-accessible vans (if available) can handle four wheelchairs or ten passengers. With a week's notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide if needed.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner: Cynthia Urban at 508-824-2306

HALIFAX-BASED

HT Drummond, Inc.

Locations service provided: Throughout Southern New England, Southeastern Mass., and Rhode Island, and to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week, 24 hours by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks. Requires 24 hours' advance notice to accommodate a foldable wheelchair. Walker, oxygen, or other equipment may be taken. With a week's notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 781-293-6264

Owner: Hugh Drummond

FALL RIVER-BASED

Braga Transportation

Locations service provided: Lakeville, Somerset, Swansea, Fall River, Westport, and Freetown; airport bookings through the dispatcher to Boston and Providence

Times available: Appointments starting at 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Friday and by appointment on weekends. Book through GATRA for medically related travel.

Cost: Call for airport booking rates.

Accessible features: With 24 hours' notice, wheelchair-accessible vans with a chair lift. Walker, oxygen, or other equipment may be taken. With 48 hours' notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA/companion guide.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-673-6779

Owner: Robert Braga

Howard Bus

Locations service provided: Fall River area in Southeastern Mass. to Boston, Worcester, or Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Any person utilizing a folded wheelchair, walker, or other equipment must place their own equipment and own self into Howard Bus vehicles

Additional comments: A charter service

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner:Sandra Howard at 508-674-8201

LAKEVILLE-BASED

Moonlighting Limousine

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety doors and windows. Mention if traveling with a foldable wheelchair, walker, or other equipment. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA if needed.

Additional comments: Limousine service with coolers, TV monitors

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner: Brian Johnson at 508-947-3290

MANSFIELD-BASED

Mansfield Town Taxi

Locations service provided: Mansfield, Canton, Foxboro, Sharon, Stoughton, Brockton, and Norton throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island

Cost: General rates are $3 for the first mile and $2.50 each additional mile. Call for flat fee rates by town to Boston, Worcester, and Providence. There is an added cost for extra individuals.

Accessible features: Advance notice if traveling with a foldable wheelchair. A walker, oxygen, or other equipment allowed. On an emergency basis company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-339-3771 or toll-free at 877-743-3632

Additional comments: Vans

MIDDLEBORO-BASED

Superior Taxi

Locations service provided: Middleboro, Lakeville, Carver, and Rochester throughout So. New England including Boston, Worcester, Providence, & New York

Times available: Seven days from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cost: Rates are $3 for the first mile and $2 for every mile thereafter. No added cost per individual on a point-to-point basis. As of Sept. 30, 2004, flat rates from Middleboro to Boston starting from $95, to Providence from $65.

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety doors and windows. A foldable wheelchair could be accommodated in trunk area. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Vans or a Chevy Impala with first aid kits in vehicles; Criminal Offender Record (CORI) checks on drivers

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-947-2424

NEW BEDFORD-BASED

Yellow Cab (Medical Service)

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island with no added cost per individual to Boston hospitals, Providence, and Worcester

Times available: By appt., 48 hours in advance

Cost: Call for rates. There is no added cost per individual.

Accessible features: 48 hours' notice for vehicles with safety doors, windows, or wheelchair lift, or to bring walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With 48 hours' notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 800-696-3814

Owner: Walter Callahan

Yellow Cab (Taxi Service)

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island

Times available: Seven days/week, 24-hour basis

Cost: Rates are $3.75 for the first mile with each additional mile at $2.25. There is no added cost per individual.

Accessible features: 48 hours' notice for vehicles with safety doors and windows, wheelchair lift, walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: A 36-vehicle fleet

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-999-5213

Owner: Walter Callahan

PLYMOUTH-BASED

AA Supreme Limousine, Inc.

Locations service provided:Throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment only

Cost:Call for rates

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety doors and windows. Mention at booking if a foldable wheelchair, walker, or other equipment is being taken to utilize vehicles with extra-wide doors. With a week's notice company is willing to call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Limousine service

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Paul or Karen at 508-224-9058 or toll-free at 800-761-5300

Central Transportation

Locations service provided: Plymouth, Carver, Duxbury, and Kingston to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available:Seven days/week from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cost: Call for rates. No extra charge for individuals on a point-to-point basis.

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety doors and windows. Mention at booking if a foldable wheelchair or walker is to be placed in the trunk. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-746-0018

Mayflower Citiservices, Inc.

Locations service provided: Throughout all of Plymouth County or to Boston, Providence, and Worcester

Times available:Seven days/week, 24-hour basis

Cost:Call for rates. No extra charge for individuals on a point-to-point basis, but there is an extra fee for added stops. Special $60 hourly rate for errand service as of Sept. 16, 2004.

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety doors and windows, Curb-to-curb service provided. A walker, equipment, or PCA may be taken at no extra charge. With 24 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA. Mention if traveling with a foldable wheelchair.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-746-7887

Owner: Jeff Burbidge

Patriot Transportation, Inc.

Locations service provided: Plymouth, Kingston, Carver, Sagamore

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: As of 9/16/2004, flat rates from Plymouth to: Boston-$85; Worcester-$70; Providence-$160

Accessible features: None

Additional comments: Livery service that uses Crown Victoria vehicles. Also operates a travel agency.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Tim or Shelly at 888-747-1702

Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Company

Locations service provided: A fixed route from Boston throughout the South Shore and Cape Cod. Stops in Barnstable, Hyannis, Sagamore, and Plymouth.

Times available: Seven days/week from 4 a.m. to 11:15 p.m. Check operator's recording for set schedule.

Cost: Call for rates or check website. A PCA travels free.

Accessible features: Contact the operator with 24 hours' notice for wheelchair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment

Additional comments: Motor coaches, half of which are equipped with lifts

Air conditioning: Yes

Website: www.p-b.com

Contact: Operator at 508-746-4795 or 508-746-0378

ROCHESTER-BASED

Braga Transportation

Locations service provided: Wareham, Rochester, Marion, and Mattapoisett to the airport, Boston, and Providence

Times available: Appointments start at 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Friday and by appointment on weekends. Book for medical travel through GATRA.

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: 24 hours' notice for wheelchair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Uses vans that have lifts and are wheelchair-accessible

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-673-6779 for non-medical. Call GATRA at 800-483-2500 for medical.

Owner: Robert Braga

SEEKONK-BASED

LEA, LLC

Locations service provided: All of Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island including Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Times available: Seven days/week by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: 48 hours' notice needed to access a wheelchair lift. If passenger is taking a folding wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment, please mention when booking. Limos have operator-controlled safety door and window locks.

Additional comments: Typically uses six-, eight-, or ten-passenger limos with coolers, TV, videos, and CDs, or with advance notice can access vans

Air conditioning: Yes

Website:www.lea-limousine.com

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-336-4555 or toll-free at 866-211-5466

Owner: Steve Bolduc

SOMERSET-BASED

Fisher Bus, Inc.

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island

Time: Call for charters

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: 48 hours' advance notice if traveling with a wheelchair (foldable for cargo area) or for wheelchair lift availability. Walker or other equipment may be taken. With 48 hours' to a week's notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Strictly a charter bus company using vans that all include lavatories

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 508-678-6127

Owner: Allen Fisher

SPRINGFIELD-BASED

Peter Pan Bus Lines

ocations service provided: Throughout the East Coast from Springfield, MA to Washington, D.C. including Boston, New York, and Worcester

Time: Call or see website as bus company operates on a varying set schedule seven days/week.

Cost: Call or see website

Accessible features: 48 hours' advance notice for wheelchair lift availability. Mention with customer ticketing if traveling with a walker, foldable wheelchair, or other equipment.

Additional comments: Operates motor coaches; Peter Pan bus tickets are interchangeable with Bonanza Bus Lines or Greyhound Bus Lines tickets

Air conditioning: Yes

Website: www.peterpanbus.com

Contact: Customer ticketing at 800-237-8747

TAUNTON-BASED

Checkers Cabs

Locations service provided: Massachusetts and Rhode Island including Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Time: Seven days/week, 24 hours

Cost: Rates are $2 per mile with an extra $10 charge per person. A flat $70 fee from Taunton area to Boston, flat $50 fee Taunton area to Providence, otherwise by miles. All rates as of Sept. 16, 2004.

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks. 24 hours' advance notice to access a chair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair. A walker, equipment, or PCA may be taken at no extra charge.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatch at 508-824-5831

Owner: Al Tucan

Cozy Cabs

Locations service provided: Throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island including Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Time: Seven days/week, 24 hours

Cost: Rates are $2 per mile with an extra $10 charge per person. A flat $70 fee from Taunton area to Boston, flat $50 fee Taunton area to Providence, otherwise by miles.

Accessible features: Operator-controlled (kids') safety door and window locks; 24 hours' advance notice to access a chair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair. A walker, equipment, or PCA may be taken at no extra charge.

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatch at 508-33082

Owner: Al Tucan

H & L Bloom Bus Lines

Locations service provided: From Taunton to Boston via scheduled runs including flag stops in the following communities: Taunton, Raynham, Easton, and West Bridgewater

Time: Seven days/week on a set schedule

Cost: $9 one-way/$18 round trip or a book of 10 rides for $40. While there are no senior discounts, all children 5 - 12 years old ride at half price, children under 5 ride free. Prices as of Sept. 16, 2004.

Accessible features: 24 hours' advance notice to access a chair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair. A walker, equipment, or PCA may be taken at no extra charge.

Additional comments: Motor coaches used as commuter buses. Company spokesperson noted that company allows Seeing Eye dogs only and that all coaches have an extra step that slides out.

Contact: Andrea Crawford at 508-822-1991, ext. 11

Enjoyable Journeys

Locations service provided: Throughout New England states, including service to Boston, Worcester, and Providence. Has charters or individual tours nationwide.

Time: By appointment to set charter or individual tours

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Mention when booking if traveling with a foldable wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With a week's notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Lavatories, internal packs, individual climate control at reclining seats with footrests and DVDs/CDs

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Karen for individual tours; to charter a motor coach call Joe, both at 508-823-6262

Owner: Jeff Deyo

Pegasus Airport Service

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. to Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Time: Seven days/week, 24 hours by appointment

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: Mention when booking if traveling with a foldable wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment. With 48 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Utilizes fourteen- or fifteen-passenger minivans

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact and owner: Donna Francis at 508-822-4388 or toll-free 888-609-4388

Taunton Motorized Carriages

Locations service provided: Throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island including Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Time: Seven days/week, 24 hours

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatch at 508-822-7313

Owner: Al Tucan

Yellow Cabs

Locations service provided: Throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island including Boston, Worcester, and Providence

Time: Seven days/week 24-hour

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatch 508-880-6767

Owner:Al Tucan

WESTPORT-BASED

Amaral Bus Company, Inc.

Locations service provided: Eastern seaboard from Nova Scotia to Florida; territory includes all of Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Time: By appointment as chartered

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: 24 hours' advance notice to access a chair lift or if traveling with a foldable wheelchair or walker. Walker, equipment, or PCA may be taken at no extra charge. With 24 hours' notice company will call area disability group for availability of a PCA.

Additional comments: Lavatories with safety handrails in all motor coaches; strictly a charter bus company

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatch at 508-324-0551

Owner: Jose Amaral

BRISTOL-PLYMOUTH HIGHWAY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS

Bourne: Route 25 East--508-759-3814

Mansfield: Route 95 North between Exits 5 & 6- 508-339-5002

Plymouth: Route 3 at Exit 5-508-746-1150

Swansea: Interstate 195 between Exits 2 and 3-508-675-5515

Wareham: After Exit 20 (summer only)

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION-RHODE ISLAND

PROVIDENCE

Bonanza Bus Lines

Locations service provided:From Providence with 150 stops to Boston, Springfield, Albany, New York, and on the Cape and Islands including Martha's Vineyard

Time: Call or see website as bus company operates on a varying set schedule seven days/week

Cost: Call or see website. PCA travels free.

Accessible features:48 hours' advance notice for wheelchair lift availability. Mention if traveling with a walker or foldable wheelchair by calling customer ticketing. Walker and other equipment that can fit in cargo area allowed.

Additional comments: Operates motor coaches. Bonanza bus tickets are interchangeable with Peter Pan or Greyhound tickets and can be booked online.

Air conditioning: Yes

Website: www.bonanzabus.com

Contact:Customer ticketing toll-free 800-556-3815

Pawtuxet Valley Buslines/Coach USA

Locations service provided: Throughout Southeastern Mass. and Rhode Island

Time: By appointment as chartered seven days/week

Cost: Call for rates

Accessible features: 48 hours' notice to utilize a vehicle that accommodates two wheelchairs and 46 passengers (or vehicle can accommodate 49 - 50 passengers and a foldable wheelchair in the cargo bin). Advance notice if traveling with walker, oxygen, or other equipment.

Additional comments: Lavatories and TV monitors/videos; strictly a charter bus company

Air conditioning: Yes

Contact: Dispatcher at 800-828-4101

PUBLIC TRANSIT

GATRA-Greater Attleboro/Taunton Regional Authority

Location fixed-route service provided: Attleboro, North Attleboro, Dighton, Norton, Plainville and Taunton, Rehoboth, and Seekonk

Time: Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Cost: One dollar within any community or fifty cents for eligible reduced-fare riders. An additional fifty cents (a quarter for reduced-fare riders) for communities traveled through. Children under 6 ride free. Unlimited monthly pass and various punch passes available for a limited time. PCA must pre-register to travel free.

Accessible features: Wheelchair lifts on all buses; walkers, oxygen, and equipment may be taken on all buses

Website:www.gatra.org

Contact: Attleboro 508-236-1100, Taunton 508-823-8828, TDD 508-824-7439. To receive an ADA application write to GATRA, 2 Oak Street, Taunton, MA 02780, attention: Joan Gallagher or email your name and home address to customercomments@gatra.org.

PAL-Plymouth Area Links

Location fixed-route service provided: Plymouth and Kingston area

Time: Monday - Friday from 6:20 a.m. to 8:15 p.m., Saturday - Sunday from 8:20 a.m. to 7:10 p.m.

Cost: Exact fare required. One dollar for adults, fifty cents for seniors or riders with disabilities. An additional fifty cents (quarter for reduced fares) for communities traveled through. Children under 6 ride free. Monthly passes available. PCAs must pre-register to travel free.

Website: www.gatra.org to PAL link

Contact:508-747-1819

OWL-Owl-Onset-Wareham Link

Location fixed-route service provided: West Wareham to Bourne

Time: Monday-Friday from 7:35 a.m. to 6:19 p.m., Saturday from 8:42 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Website: www.gatra.org to OWL link

Contact:800-433-5995 or TTY at 508-824-7439

SRTA-Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (Fall River and New Bedford Area)

Location fixed-route service provided: Acushnet, Fairhaven, Freetown, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fall River, Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, Somerset, Swansea, and Westport. The following services were eliminated effective Sept. 7, 2004: Somerset/Swansea shuttle and Acushnet/Fairhaven/Mattapoisett shuttle.

Cost: Regular fare per zone $1.25. For seniors/those with disabilities/children age 6 - 11, sixty cents fare per zone. One-way trip (NB - FR/FR - NB) $4.75. Children under 6 free with adult. Monthly passes may be purchased.

Website:www.srtabus.com/DRSchedu.htm

Contact: 508-997-9821 or email info@srtabus.com

MBTA Commuter Rail Service in GATRA Area

Attleboro/Stoughton Commuter Rail

Stops: Boston South Station, Back Bay, Ruggles, Hyde Park, Route 128, Canton Junction, Canton Center, Stoughton, Sharon, Mansfield, Attleboro, South Attleboro, Mansfield, and Providence

Times: Call 617-222-3200 for travel information or see website

Cost: Sold by zones. Tickets can be purchased at train stations during limited hours or on the train with a $2 surcharge per ticket. Out-of-state tourists wanting discount passes must have out-of-state transit passes, which will be honored in Massachusetts. Call 617-222-3200 for travel information or see website.

Accessibility: Mini-high platform at outbound end of station for accessibility. Ask conductor for assistance if needed as priority seats can be folded to provide room for an unsecured wheelchair area on commuter rail. If getting off midway, inform conductor if extra time is needed.

Additional notes: Fixed Route Services at OTA/Back Bay office is open Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. The office is closed weekends and holidays. Call 617-222-1542, 617-222-5970 (voice), or 617-222-5854 (TTY) for more information. Senior and Access Pass Program reduced-fare passes for eligible persons with disabilities and senior citizens. Bring your pass from your state. Call Ron Marani at 617-222-5438 (voice) or 617-222-5854 (TTY) for information on all concerns, questions, suggestions, complaints, and trip planning regarding travel by persons with disabilities or senior citizens on MBTA buses, subway, light rail (Green Line), commuter rail, and commuter boat.

Old Colony Commuter Rail

Stops: Boston South Station, Braintree, Holbrook/Randolph, Montello, Brockton, Campello, Bridgewater, Middleboro/Lakeville, South Weymouth, Abington, Whitman, Hanson, Halifax, Kingston, and Plymouth

Times: Call 617-222-3200 for travel information or see website

Cost: Tickets can be purchased at train stations during limited hours or on the train with a $2 surcharge per ticket. Out-of-state tourists wanting discount passes must have out-of-state transit passes, which will be honored in Massachusetts. Call 617-222-3200 for travel information or see website.

Accessibility: A full-size platform is at each station for accessibility. Ask conductor for assistance if needed as priority seats can be folded to provide room for an unsecured wheelchair area on commuter rail. If getting off midway, inform conductor if extra time is needed.

Additional notes: Fixed Route Services at OTA/Back Bay office is open Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. The office is closed weekends and holidays. Call 617-222-1542, 617-222-5970 (voice), or 617-222-5854 (TTY). Senior and Access Pass Program reduced-fare passes for eligible persons with disabilities and senior citizens. Bring your pass from your state. Call Ron Marani at 617-222-5438 (voice) or 617-222-5854 (TTY) for information on all concerns, questions, suggestions, complaints, and trip planning regarding travel by persons with disabilities or senior citizens on MBTA buses, subway, light rail (Green Line), commuter rail, and commuter boat.

How to get to the Back Bay office:

* By subway: You can get to OTA/Back Bay easily by the Orange Line. Simply exit the train at Back Bay Station and take the elevator to the lobby. OTA/Back Bay is to the right of the Amtrak ticket windows.

* By commuter rail:Four commuter rail lines stop at Back Bay Station: Framingham/Worcester, Needham, Attleboro/Stoughton, and Franklin/Forge Park. As with travel by Orange Line, simply take the elevator to the lobby and look for OTA/Back Bay to the right of the Amtrak ticket window.

* By Green Line: Take the Green Line to Copley Station (Copley Station, currently not wheelchair accessible). Walk up Dartmouth Street to the MBTA Back Bay T Station.

Website:www.mbta.com

PARATRANSIT SERVICE

Accessible, curb-to-curb transportation for passengers who meet ADA requirements and/or are age 60+ who cannot use fixed-route service. A temporary, 21-day visitor's service pass for an ADA-eligible rider or senior is available when area offices are contacted in advance.

Regional GATRA Dial-A-Ride

Location services provided:Attleboro, Berkley, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Seekonk, and Taunton. Note: Bill's Taxi operates Dial-A-Ride service in Mansfield.

Time: Scheduled appointments begin Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call a day ahead; Monday appointments can be left on answering machine over the weekend.

Cost: $1.25 within two directly connected communities and $2.50 for travel beyond these boundaries. PCAs must pre-register to travel free.

Accessible features Paratransit, curb-to-curb service; operators have CPR, first aid, and sensitivity training

Website: www.gatra.org

Contact: Attleboro 508-222-6106, Taunton 508-823-8828, TDD 508-824-7439

Council of Aging Dial-A-Rides

Location services provided: Plainville, Rehoboth, Lakeville, Middleboro, Carver, Plymouth, Kingston, and Wareham

Cost: $1.25 within two directly connected communities and $2.50 for travel beyond these boundaries. PCAs must pre-register to travel free.

Contact: Attleboro 508-222-6106, Taunton 508-823-8828 (voice), 508-824-7439 (TTY)

Demand Response (Operated by SRTA)

Location services provided: Acushnet, Fairhaven, Freetown, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Swansea, Fall River, Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, Somerset, Swansea, and Westport

Time: Monday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cost: Exact fare required. Sixty cents per zone for an ADA-eligible rider. A registered PCA rides free. Anyone accompanying an individual and not considered a PCA will be charged at the same rate as the client. For this service there is no children's fare.

Website: www.srtabus.com/DRSchedu.htm

Contact: Administrative offices 508-997-6767 (voice) or 508-997-1943 (TTY), or contact the Authority by email at Lpettine@aol.com. This is in accordance with current FTA guidelines.

HOTELS/MOTELS

DEDHAM

Residence Inn by Marriott

Address: 259 Elm St.

Shuttle: No

Banquet room: Holds up to 10 people on a first floor, or accessible to elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 1

Distance from Boston: 30 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 45 minutes

Distance from Providence: 45 minutes

Contact: 781-407-0999

FALL RIVER

Best Western

Address: 360 Airport Rd.

Shuttle: Has discounted rates with local air-conditioned taxi. If wheelchair accessibility is needed, contact with a motor bus company can be made at discounted rate. May bring oxygen or walker.

Rooms: All rooms are accessible

Special rates: Ask manager about discount rates for travelers with disabilities or their PCAs. A nonprofit that wants to book the banquet/conference room should ask manager about discount rates.

Banquet room: Holds up to 35 people on a first floor, or accessible to elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 1

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston:60 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 90 minutes

Distance from Providence: 40 minutes

Contact: Manager at 508-672-0011

FRANKLIN

Hawthorne Suites Ltd.

Address: Upper Union St.

Shuttle: Free local shuttle for a ten-mile radius. Wheelchair-accessible and air-conditioned.

Banquet room: Holds up to 140 people on a first floor, or accessible to elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 0

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston: 60 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 45 minutes

Distance from Providence: 30 minutes

Contact: 508-553-3500

NEW BEDFORD

Days Inn

Address: 500 Hathaway Rd.

Shuttle: None

Rooms: PCA free if occupying same room

Banquet room: 350 people on the first floor

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 0

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston:90 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 90 minutes

Distance from Providence: 30 minutes

Contact: 508-997-1231

NORTH DARTMOUTH

Comfort Inn

Address: 171 Faunce Corner Rd.

Shuttle: None

Rooms: Wheelchair-accessible; ask for PCA free if occupying same room

Banquet room:None

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 0

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston: 60 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 90 minutes

Distance from Providence: 90 minutes

Contact: 508-996-0800

RAYNHAM

Courtyard by Marriott

Address: 37 Paramount Dr.

Shuttle: Sedan up to five miles free. Vehicle is air-conditioned with operator-controlled door and windows. A walker or oxygen may be taken.

Airport travel: Yes, to any nearby airport

Banquet room: Holds up to 80 people (theater-style) on a first floor, or accessible to elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 1

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston:60 minutes

Distance from Worcester:45 minutes

Distance from Providence: 30 minutes

Contact: Front desk at 508-822-8383

SOMERSET

Quality Inn

Address: 1879 Wilbur Ave.

Shuttle: No

Banquet room: Holds up to 50 people but is not accessible

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 0

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston: 90 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 45 minutes

Distance from Providence: 30 minutes

Contact: Manager at 508-678-4545

TAUNTON

Holiday Inn of Taunton

Address: 700 Myles Standish Blvd.

Shuttle: No

Banquet room: Holds up to 200 people on a first floor, or accessible to elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 2

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston: 60 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 60 minutes

Distance from Providence: 30 minutes

Contact: Manager at 508-823-0430

WESTPORT

Hampton Inn

Address: 53 Old Bedford Rd.

Shuttle: No

Banquet room: Holds up to 25 people on a first floor, or accessible with elevator

Accessible bathrooms for conference/banquet: 1

Prepared to accommodate a service animal: Yes

Distance from Boston: 60 minutes

Distance from Worcester: 45 minutes

Distance from Providence:30 minutes

Contact: Kathy Charbonneau at 508-675-8500

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to acknowledge the Barbara Wilensky Gopen Memorial Fellowship and its sponsors the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, Institute for Community Inclusion/UMass Boston, Disability Law Center, and Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council. Thanks also go to Southeast Regional Planning Economic Development District; Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Authority; Independence Associates; ARC of Northern Bristol County; the Southeastern Massachusetts Bureau of Tourism; Ron Marani of the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority; Peggy Freedman of the Massachusetts DD Council; and Meredith Aalto, Danielle Dreilinger, David Temelini, and David Helm of the Institute for Community Inclusion. The guide would not have been completed without their input and help.

-Donna Kulpa