WRTA ADA Eligibility Appeal Process

Since ADA paratransit eligibility is established as a civil right, methods are in place to ensure that "due process" is observed. Federal regulations state that the administrative appeal process is intended to give applicants who have been denied eligibility, or who have been deemed conditionally eligible, the opportunity to have their case heard by a panel independent of the transit authority or initial decision maker.

The right to appeal is as follows:

1. Applicants have 60 days from the date of the eligibility determination letter to appeal the decision in writing to the WRTA
2. Prior to the hearing, the applicant's eligibility status remains unchanged from the original WRTA determination 
3. Appeals will be heard by a panel independent from the WRTA
4. Applicants will have the right to speak in person on their own behalf and/or have others represent them at appeal proceedings
5. Applicants will have the right to necessary support, such as an interpreter, if requested in the appeal letter
6. The determination resulting from the appeal will be made in writing within 30 days and will state the reason(s) for the decision. If a decision is not made within 30 days of the date of appeal, full eligibility will be given until a decision is made
7. Applicants may reapply for service at any time if there is a change in their functional mobility

REQUESTS FOR APPEAL SHOULD BE MADE IN WRITING TO:

Stephen F. O'Neil, Administrator
Worcester Regional Transit Authority
60 Foster St. [ View a map ]
Worcester, MA 01608