Alabama Transportation Resources

Alabama-Transportation

Eventually all seniors reach a point where operating a vehicle is no longer safe. Some seniors resist this change fearing the loss of independence. Not only does Alabama have accessible public transportation, but they also offer special senior-specific services in almost every county.

Public Transportation in Birmingham and the Suburbs

The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transportation Authority provides accessible, efficient, affordable transportation in Birmingham and the suburbs as well as special services for seniors. The fixed route bus system connects Birmingham with its suburbs in Bessemer, Fairfield, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills. Seniors are eligible for a reduced fare if they have a Medicare Card or are at least 62 years old. The discounted price for a single-ride is $0.60 and, for transfers, $0.15. Another available option for seniors is purchasing the Access Pass ID Card which provides unlimited rides per month for $21.00.

Paratransit Services

Seniors who struggle with mobility should take advantage the BJCTA Paratransit or VIP Service. This alternative to the fixed route bus service is available for ADA-eligible riders and provides shared ride, curb-to-curb service in lift-equipped vans. Passengers pay $2.00 for a one-way trip or they can purchase a $80.00 VIP Monthly for unlimited usage. When planning their trip, seniors may choose one of two types of VIP service. Demand Service is a reservation for a single trip while Subscription Service is a standing reservation for trips which occur at least three times a week to the same destination for a minimum duration of ninety days. Reservations can be made up to two weeks in advance and as late as a day in advance and are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is important to allow at least an hour of travel time when planning your trip and be ready for pick-up at least twenty minutes in advance. Eligible seniors may be accompanied by a Personal Care Attendant and/or service animals free of charge. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

To expand the region where paratransit is available, BJCTA coordinates with an additional paratransit service, ClasTran. Clastran transports the elderly and disabled in rural parts of Jefferson and Shelby County as well as parts of urban Birmingham without access to the VIP Service. The hours of operation are 7:00 am to 5:00 p.m. and a one-way trip costs $4.00.

More Resources

Senior Care Services: Need help making sense of senior care options? Get free guidance from Care.com's experienced senior care advisors who can help you select from screened home care agencies and senior housing communities nationwide to find the right solution for your aging loved one. Search senior housing options and home care agencies or call 855-490-8652.

Senior Care Planning: If you're not sure about where to begin the process of searching for senior care for your family, Care.com offers specially trained individuals who will work one-on-one with you to determine the best care situation for you and your family. Call them at 877-922-7314.

Senior Care Guide: Care.com's comprehensive guide to senior care that helps readers understand senior care options by describing each option in detail and answering frequently asked questions.

For more information on senior healthcare, visit our Articles and Resources page.

Looking for quality senior care in Alabama? Check out the local pages below.

Montgomery
Spanish Fort
Trussville