The Connections Program provides ACCESS service for anyone with
a disability age 18 to 64 who does not have Port Authority bus service
in their area, or who is traveling to an area without Port Authority bus
service. Connections is sponsored by Port Authority of Allegheny County
with funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Connections Program
ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION PROCESS
Connections Service
Riders can use ACCESS service for any
destination within Allegheny County, and
destinations in adjoining counties within 1.5 miles
of the county line. Rides are available seven days
per week, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are no
restrictions on the purpose or number of trips.
The type of service available depends on the
details of your planned trip. When using the
Connections Program, you can take:
• An ACCESS ride to the closest accessible
Port Authority bus or light rail stop if the bus
stop is more than ¾ mile from your home or
destination, where you’d then board the bus or
light rail.
• A direct ACCESS ride from your origin to your
destination if: the trip on the bus is less than
five miles and would take you more than 90
minutes; if there is no bus service at all; or if
there is no bus service within an hour of the
time you need to travel.
Travel Planning and Help with Navigation
ACCESS program staff are available to help you
determine trip eligibility, and to help plan your
trips. They can assist with:
• Determining the best Port Authority bus routes
to use for your trip
• Deciding which bus stop to use for your origin
or destination
• Choosing accessible stops with amenities like
seats and shelters
• Scheduling the ACCESS trip to get you to and
from the bus stop or directly to your destination
Application Process
Connections Program applicants complete an
application form, and provide proof of age and
verification of a disability. Verification can come
from your health care provider, your school
district (as an IEP), or an agency from which you
receive disability-related services.
Application forms can be requested and
submitted by mail, online or in person at the
ACCESS program office.
Please visit
myaccessride.com
for important information about service, safety, additional
program options, and more. You can also call
(412) 562-5353
or
TTY 711.
Revised November 2020