Milwaukee County Transit System now offers two options that make buses more accessible for wheelchair users. Both low-floor, step-free and lift-equipped buses now operate on many MCTS routes.

Milwaukee County Transit System now offers two options that make buses more accessible for wheelchair users. Both low-floor, step-free and lift-equipped buses now operate on many MCTS routes.Low-floor buses are equipped with ramps which are always located at the front door. Buses with lifts have a sign indicating if the lift is in the front or rear of the bus.The wheelchair securement areas for both low-floor and lift-equipped buses are the same and require the same operator and personal securement procedures. For passenger safety, MCTS drivers must secure wheelchairs completely before moving the bus.All MCTS Route Guides indicate which routes and what individual trips on routes are wheelchair accessible. For assistance with planning your trip on MCTS or to request a Route Guide or other information about fares, routes and schedules call the BusLine at 344-6711, any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Routes featuring wheelchair accessibility in the Milwaukee County Transit System have increased to more than twenty due to the addition of new convenient low-floor buses. However, one should still verify that desired routes are accessible before going on a trip. To see whether a particular route is wheelchair-accessible, consult individual route guides.MCTS route guides contain detailed schedules and maps and indicate if a route is entirely or partially wheelchair-accessible. The universal accessibility logo will be noted on the cover of the route guide. Be certain to check further that desired individual trips on accessible routes are not exceptions.For route and schedule information stop at one of several MCTS information displays at major shopping centers and other locations, including the Parking and Transit office at UWM. Or call the BusLine at 344-6711, TTY 937-3299, any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. You can even request that a route guide be mailed to you.

Exact fare is required on all MCTS routes as drivers cannot make a change. If you have an MCTS Reduced Fare Photo ID for disabled persons or a valid Medicare Card please have the card and appropriate fare ready when boarding. The card needs to be shown to the driver prior to depositing the fare. Also, when paying the fare, be sure to ask for a transfer slip if you need to transfer to another MCTS route for your trip.

When the bus arrives remain at least five feet from the door where you will be entering to allow other passengers to get on or off, and wait for the ramp or lift to be lowered. For a low-floor ramp-equipped bus, position yourself at the front door. For a lift-equipped bus, first, determine if the equipment is located at a front or rear door. The driver will tell you when the ramp or lift is ready for you to board. In the case of a ramp, move forward onto the ramp, deposit your fare or show your UPASS and move into the bus. With a lift, board the lift backward, lock your wheels in place and when the driver indicates that the lift has elevated you to the proper level, proceed into the bus to pay your fare.Wait until the driver has lifted and locked temporary seats in place to create space for securement of your wheelchair. When the driver instructs you, maneuver your wheelchair into the safety locking device that firmly clamps your right wheel.

When you board the bus please inform the driver of your stop to help him anticipate when you may need assistance. This will also ensure your stop will be announced. Operators automatically announce stops at all major intersections and other stops by request.

Push the touch strip adjacent to the securement area to notify the driver that you wish to get off at the next bus stop. Some bus drivers will ask which stop you would like ahead of time. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and for the driver to be available to assist you in releasing all securement devices.You can begin by unfastening safety belts, pushing down on the knob near your right wheel and unlocking your wheels. Please do not begin moving from the area to make sure the aisle to the exit is clear. Move toward the door with the ramp or lift. Proceed to the ramp or lift after the driver indicates it is in the proper position. When using a ramp, move ahead and off the ramp slowly. When using a lift, move onto the lift, lock in your wheels and wait until the lift’s safety barrier lowers to ground level, before unlocking your wheels and moving forward. Be sure to move completely off the ramp and lift equipment.For assistance with planning your trip, call the BusLine at 344-6711, any day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.