As Philadelphia continues to grow and evolve, getting around the city can present unique challenges, especially for senior residents. Understanding the available transportation options is key to maintaining independence and an active lifestyle. While the term “car share” might evoke images of renting vehicles by the hour, in Philadelphia, for seniors, it often refers to specialized programs designed to provide accessible and affordable rides. This guide focuses on one crucial service: the Shared-Ride Program in Philadelphia, formerly known as CCT Connect and now operating under the SEPTA Access umbrella.
Understanding SEPTA Access and the Rebranded Shared-Ride Program
You might have heard of CCT Connect, a familiar name for paratransit services in Philadelphia. As of July 1, 2024, CCT Connect officially transitioned to SEPTA Access. While the vehicles may still display the CCT Connect branding for a period, it’s important to know you are now accessing services under the SEPTA Access name. This rebranding signifies SEPTA’s commitment to streamlining and improving accessible transportation options throughout the city.
What is the Shared-Ride Program?
The Shared-Ride Program (SRP) is a vital door-to-door transportation service specifically designed for Philadelphia residents aged 65 and older. It operates as a ridesharing service, meaning you may be sharing the vehicle with other passengers heading in similar directions. This helps to make the service more efficient and cost-effective. Keep in mind that driver assistance is limited, and rides are based on vehicle availability, so advance reservations are essential.
This program facilitates travel within Philadelphia and extends up to three miles beyond city borders into Bucks, Montgomery, and Delaware counties. If you need shared-ride services outside of this service area, you should contact your county’s coordinator for information on local programs.
Registering for the Shared-Ride Program: Your Key to Accessible Transportation
To utilize the Shared-Ride Program, registration is required. The process is straightforward and ensures you are eligible for this valuable service.
Here’s how to register:
- Application Form: You’ll need to complete an application form. You can obtain this form in two ways:
- Request by Phone: Call SEPTA Access Customer Service at 215-580-7145 and select prompt 6 to request an application be mailed to you.
- Print Online: While not directly linked in this rewritten article for link maintenance purposes, you can typically find a link to download the Shared-Ride Program application on the official SEPTA website by searching for “SEPTA Access Shared-Ride Program application”.
- Proof of Age: You must provide acceptable documentation verifying your age (65 or older). Common forms of proof include a driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport.
- Appointment at 1234 Market Street: Once you have your completed application and proof of age, you’ll need to schedule an appointment to visit the SEPTA location at 1234 Market Street. At this appointment, you will receive your CCT Key card, which is essential for using the Shared-Ride Program.
Understanding the Fare for Shared Rides
The Shared-Ride Program is designed to be affordable. Registered customers pay a fare of $4.25 for a one-way trip within the designated service region. You have convenient payment options:
- Cash: You can pay your fare in cash when you board the vehicle.
- Virtual Wallet on CCT Card: Your CCT Key card can also function as a virtual wallet. You can add funds to your card and use it to pay your fare. For more detailed information on CCT card fares and how to load funds, you can visit the SEPTA website and search for “CCT card fares”.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Shared-Ride Program
Let’s address some common questions you might have about using the Shared-Ride Program:
Can I bring a guest with me?
Yes, you can! Shared-Ride customers are allowed to bring one guest who rides at the same $4.25 fare. Additional guests are permitted but will be charged the General Public fare. Children are also welcome and ride at the same fare as an adult guest.
What if I have a Senior Fare Card?
If you possess a valid SEPTA Senior Fare card, you have even more fare-free transportation options! With a Senior Fare card, you can ride free at all times on all SEPTA bus, trolley, Broad Street Line (B), Market-Frankford Line (L), and Norristown High Speed Line (M) routes within Pennsylvania. This also extends to Regional Rail within PA. While trips originating or ending outside of Pennsylvania will require reduced fares, your Senior Fare card provides significant savings and accessibility on SEPTA’s fixed-route services.
What if I move out of Philadelphia?
The Shared-Ride Program is specifically for Philadelphia residents. If you move outside of the city, you will no longer be eligible. However, many neighboring counties offer similar shared-ride services. SEPTA’s shared-ride coordinators in those counties can provide information about programs in your new area.
Can I use both the Shared-Ride Program and fixed-route SEPTA services?
Absolutely! Eligibility for the Shared-Ride Program does not restrict your use of other SEPTA services. In fact, if you are 65 or older, your SEPTA CCT card also acts as a “Seniors Ride Free” card, granting you free access to SEPTA fixed-route services within Pennsylvania.
Where can the Shared-Ride Program pick me up and drop me off?
SEPTA Access vehicles can pick you up and drop you off at any location within the service area that is accessible. If you are using a SEPTA transit stop as your pickup or drop-off point, you can utilize any stop that is active during the hours of fixed-route service to that location. For convenience, consider using locations like stores or restaurants where you can comfortably wait for your vehicle. When booking your trip, be sure to provide a phone number where you can be reached while you are out.
Need help with the application?
If you require assistance completing the Shared-Ride Program application, SEPTA Access Customer Service is there to help. Call them at 215-580-7145 to request assistance. A staff member can call you back, go through the questions with you over the phone, complete the form on your behalf, and mail it to you for your signature.
Conclusion: Embrace Accessible Transportation in Philadelphia
The SEPTA Access Shared-Ride Program is a valuable resource for senior residents in Philadelphia, providing a reliable and affordable way to navigate the city and maintain an active and engaged lifestyle. By understanding the program’s details, registration process, and benefits, you can take advantage of this excellent service and enhance your mobility within Philadelphia. For the most up-to-date information and any program updates, always refer to the official SEPTA website.
