Getting Around Arlington: Paratransit Programs You Should Know

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.  

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How an Active Commute Benefit Can Complement your Current Benefits Package

There are many reasons an employer would consider offering an active commute benefit: maybe many of your employees already commute by biking or walking; your organization is interested in promoting sustainability, health, and wellness; or you’re looking for a low-cost option to add to your benefits package. Offering a benefit for active commuters supports employees who already bike and walk to work and incentivizes others to give it a try. Additionally, updating your benefits package to include active commuting can increase employee retention, satisfaction, and recruitment. 

Not sure where to start? Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP) has plenty of resources to help you incorporate a new benefit into your existing benefits package. Below I’ll explain what an active commute benefit is and how ATP can help you implement it. 

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Transform Your Community on PARK(ing) Day

PARK(ing) Day is coming up on Friday, September 19 and the Arlington community is invited to participate.During this event, metered parking spaces around Arlington County will be transformed into small parks and attractions to create a visualization of how public spaces normally reserved for parking can be repurposed. If your organization is looking for a creative way to engage its employees andparticipate in the local community, then this could be the event for you. 

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Incorporating Arlington’s Trails and Greenspaces into your Workday

As the summer months roll on, it’s a great time to step outside and take advantage of Arlington’s excellent natural and recreational spaces. For residents and commuters working in the County, there is a wide range of outdoor opportunities and resources that can easily fit into your schedule or enhance your commute. These include scenic trails ideal for both walking and biking, as well as peaceful parks perfect for relaxation and meditation. Arlington’s green spaces provide valuable opportunities to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Areas such as these can not only provide a break from the day-to-day routine, but also a chance to reconnect with nature, clear the mind, and return to the office feeling more focused and refreshed.  

Below, I’ve highlighted some of my favorite trails and parks to explore this summer, ideal for a mental health break, adding to your commute, or simply making the most out of the warm and sunny weather on the weekend.  

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Start your Summer Travel with Local Transit

No Parking? No Problem. 

It’s summer, and that means peak travel season. Living in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area means there are a variety of hubs to get out of town. For travelers who don’t want to worry about driving and parking, or payinghigh prices for ride-hailing services, there are plenty of options that are both affordable and convenient. This blog will explain the different ways you can get to Reagan National Airport, Dulles International Airport, and Union Station, without having to drive. 

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