Accessing Houston’s Metro Lift: Tips for Individuals with Low Vision
Key Features of Metro Lift
- Accessibility: Metro Lift is designed to offer door-to-door services for those who require assistance to get into a vehicle. It operates within a service area of 808 square miles, with a core area of 557 square miles where only one ticket is needed; areas beyond this require two tickets.
- Routes and Services: The service does not allow cross-city transportation (e.g., from Clear Lake to Houston) but covers extensive intra-city routes. For instance, passengers can travel from Tomball to Willowbrook, and then onward to downtown Houston.
- Pricing: Metro Lift costs $1.25 per ride within the base area and $2.50 for extended areas. Fixed-route services are free for individuals aged 70 and above.
Eligibility and Booking
- Application Process: Eligibility requires an application detailing current transportation needs and a medical documentation of disability. An in-person assessment follows.
- Services can be booked via an automated phone system or a web application. Tickets can also be purchased at local stores like Kroger.
Applying for MetroLIFT Eligibility
There are two steps required to submit a METROLift online application.
Step 1
To complete an online application you’ll want to first ask your physician or health care professional to complete and sign a certification form describing in detail why your disability prevents you from using other accessible METRO services.
The form will need to be scanned so that it can be uploaded with the online application
Step 2
Complete the online METROLift application. Make sure to upload a signed copy of the certification form, otherwise the application will be incomplete.
Once they receive your properly completed online application, you’ll receive a letter explaining how to make an appointment for your required in-person interview.
After the in-person interview is conducted, you’ll receive a final decision regarding your eligibility in writing within 21 days. If a decision isn’t made within this time period, you have the right to use the service until a decision is made.
Additional Considerations
- Support: Passengers are allowed to bring attendants or companions, but advance notification is necessary due to limited space in the vehicles. Service animals and mobility aids are accommodated.
- Advocacy: Users are encouraged to advocate for Metro Lift through communications with local council members, senators, or state representatives, emphasizing the need for continued support via mechanisms like a one-cent sales tax.
Resources
- Online Information and Support: Detailed information and the application process can be accessed at ridemetro.org, under the Metro Lift paratransit service section.
- Customer Support: For further inquiries, Metro Lift’s customer service can be reached at 713-225-0119, Monday through Friday, from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Service Map
