Jackson Transit Authority expands service with 8 new paratransit vehicles

JACKSON, Tenn. — Public transit just got more accessible within the Hub City thanks to large contributions.

The Jackson Transit Authority had a ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. Thursday afternoon.

JTA is celebrating the addition of eight new paratransit vehicles to the fleet. These vehicles were funded by contributions from federal, state and local sources totaling over $1 million. These new vehicles will lower the operational cost of the JTA.

We spoke with Melinda Clark from JTA for more information on the lower cost.

“So when you have new vehicles, there you have less expenses, so when it comes to maintenance, having to repair, or do any type of service to the vehicle is going to be minimal because we have eight brand new paratransit vans,” said Clark.

These new paratransit vans will pick you up and take you to a location, rather than the typical JTA buses that follow a route. The vans are primarily for individuals enrolled in the LIFT program.

All eight of the new vans are wheelchair accessible and can each fit 12 passengers and 3 wheelchairs. They are not solely for medical use.

“Whether it’s medical, to the grocery stores or even to the movies and then we’ll go back and pick that individual as well and take them back home. The vehicles will roll out tomorrow morning,” said Clark.

These vehicles will enhance the JTA’s commitment to providing accessible and reliable transportation to the community. If you need to call the JTA, they can be reached by phone at 731-423-0200 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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