Arlington, and the greater DMV in general, offers a wide range of commuting options for those traveling without a car. However, for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, utilizing public transportation can still present significant barriers. These may include difficulties reaching bus stops, boarding vehicles without ramps or lifts, or accessing necessary assistance during their commute. Such obstacles can make it harder to get to work, attend appointments, or stay connected with the broader community.
To address these challenges, transit agencies such as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and Arlington Transit (ART) provide convenient ways to get to work or navigate the county. These programs are commonly known as paratransit programs, which refer to transportation services tailored to individuals who cannot use fixed-route transit due to a disability. Paratransit programs utilize vehicles that come equipped with mobility assistance devices such as ramps and wheelchair lifts, and can provide service tailored to the commuter’s needs.
These programs ensure that all residents, regardless of physical ability, can commute safely and independently. In the sections below, I’ll highlight a few of Arlington’s key accessibility and paratransit programs and explain how you can access them if needed.
MetroAccess is WMATA’s paratransit service, providing shared, door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities that are unable to use regular Metrobus or Metrorail services. This may include needing assistance getting in and out of a vehicle, traveling with a mobility aid such as a wheelchair, or other accessibility-related requirement. MetroAccess serves all areas where standard WMATA transit operates and will pick commuters up within a three-quarter mile radius of any Metrobus stop or Metrorail station.
To use MetroAccess, eligible riders must first complete a registration process. This includes submitting an application, which can be done online, via email at eligibility@wmata.com. Additionally, applications can be submitted by mailing a physical copy to WMATA’s office, or by calling the WMATA helpline at (202) 262-2700.
Applicants must also provide documentation from a healthcare provider explaining their disability and how it limits their ability to use standard public transit options. After the application is submitted, WMATA will schedule an in-person assessment to determine their eligibility. Once approved, riders can begin booking their MetroAccess trips.
MetroAccess rides must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and can be reserved up to seven days ahead. Trips are booked either online or by phone. As a shared-ride service, other passengers travelling along similar routes may be picked up during each trip. Fares are comparable to standard Metro fares and are capped at $4.50 per trip.
For more details or to begin the application process, visit the official MetroAccess website.
In addition to MetroAccess, Arlington Transit (ART) offers its own paratransit service known as STAR (Specialized Transit for Arlington Residents). STAR is a transportation option designed specifically for Arlington County residents. Similar to MetroAccess, STAR provides commuters with a shared, door-to-door ride service for eligible riders with disabilities.
If you’ve already enrolled in MetroAccess, you are automatically eligible to use STAR. However, it’s recommended that you contact the STAR Call Center or email STAR@arlingtonstar.com to confirm your eligibility and ensure your information is correctly recorded in their system. Once your registration is confirmed you can begin scheduling STAR rides through the Arlington STAR mobile app or by calling the STAR Call Center at (703) 228-1900.
In addition to the standard STAR program, ART offers several specialized STAR services to meet the diverse needs of Arlington residents. One such option is the STAR Assisted Transportation Service, which provides rides to healthcare appointments for eligible residents who are 60 years or older and require the assistance of a personal care attendant.
ART also offers Temporary STAR, designed for individuals with short-term disabilities that temporarily prevent them from using regular transit services. Another option, Interim STAR, is available for residents aged 60 and older who are still waiting for their MetroAccess application to be approved.
More information about STAR and related programs can be found on their official webpage.
For those who need extra support getting to and from work, getting to appointments, or staying connected with the community, Arlington offers a variety of helpful resources. Paratransit programs such as MetroAccess and Arlington STAR make it simpler for commuters with disabilities to reach their destinations with ease.
Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP) can help your organization connect with these services, simplify the registration process, and share additional tools to make transportation as convenient as possible. ATP can provide resources and information about additional programs to help commuters make the most out of Arlington's public transit system, such as the Guaranteed Ride Home program. ATP can also visit your organization to host a tabling event or presentation to share more transportation information and resources that can help your employees commute as efficiently and equitably as possible.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners