This report provides a sketch planning model and regional models to (1) improve the ability of metropolitan planning organizations and transit operators to estimate the probable future demand for Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) complementary paratransit service; and (2) predict travel by ADA paratransit-eligible individuals on all modes, not just ADA paratransit. All model parameters and coefficients are contained in this report and a fully implemented version is available on the enclosed CD-ROM, CRP-CD-121. This report will be of interest to regional, state, and federal agencies that oversee, plan, or finance public transportation; public transportation systems that provide ADA complementary paratransit services; and advocates for people with disabilities.

"TRB's Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis 74: Policies and Practices for Effectively and Efficiently Meeting ADA Paratransit Demand highlights policies and practices that transit agencies may be able to apply to their own paratransit services, often without the need to devote significant funds, personnel, or other resources. The report also examines certain practices and technologies that are still under development or have not undergone extensive testing"--Publisher's description.

Paratransit services are more expensive to provide on a per-trip basis than fixed-route transit, so operating efficiencies could be achieved by attracting some paratransit riders to fixed route. The Guidebook identifies the characteristics and preferences of four distinct market segments: people with disabilities who use fixed-route transit; people with disabilities who use paratransit; others who currently use paratransit; and people with disabilities who normally do not use transit. The Guidebook also provides step-by-step procedures for estimating demand, locating bus stops, training drivers, providing travel training for patrons, marketing services, and evaluating successes.