AUGUSTA, Ga. – The paratransit system in Augusta, designed to provide essential transportation for disabled veterans and individuals who cannot use regular buses, is facing significant challenges. Over the past year, the service has struggled to keep up with an increasing demand, leaving many riders frustrated and concerned.

One of the most vocal advocates has been a blind veteran who recently raised his concerns at a commission meeting. The veteran highlighted the difficulty of scheduling rides, noting that he now has to plan two weeks in advance, a far cry from the usual 24-hour notice that used to be standard.

Currently, the system operates with six drivers serving approximately 5,000 clients. There are seven paratransit vans in total, but only six are operational. Three of these vans were purchased in 2016 and were slated for replacement by 2021, but they are still in service.

The root of the problem, according to the Transit Director, is a classic case of supply versus demand. With a growing number of riders and limited resources, the system simply cannot keep up. The aging fleet and limited number of drivers exacerbate the situation, making it harder for clients to get the rides they need.

Daily riders have expressed concerns about the delays, with many sharing stories of having to schedule rides far in advance or experiencing last-minute cancellations. The strain on the system has also been felt by families and caregivers who rely on paratransit to help transport loved ones to appointments, work, and other essential destinations.

The city is aware of the issues, and officials are exploring possible solutions, but as of now, the challenges continue. Whether through increased funding, additional drivers, or new vehicles, improvements to the paratransit system will be crucial to ensuring that Augusta’s disabled veterans and other residents have reliable access to transportation in the future.