Handy Bus service is a door-to-door public transportation service provided for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the regular fixed route buses. It’s an advanced reservation, shared-ride service operated with accessible Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant vehicles.

Eligibility requirements vary by program. Program determination is based on verification of the written application and may also include professional verification and/or an in-person functional assessment.

Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) Program

The Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) program is a discretionary program which provides transportation assistance to those individuals in the community who, because of age, income status, or disability, does not have access to other means of transportation. The TD services are provided through an ongoing funding partnership between the Florida Commission for Transportation Disadvantaged (FCTD) and Manatee County Government. To use the TD program, you must submit an application and provide income verification.

Scheduling

Please call (941) 748-2317 Monday – Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Reservations may be made up to 2 weeks in advance, with a required minimum of 2 business days in advance of your desired appointment notice. Trips are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, pending available resources. Trips may be reserved between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday – Saturday, excluding major holidays. 

TD Handy Bus trips are reserved for health care, employment, education, or other life- sustaining activities (grocery, banking, etc.). TD trips are prioritized according to trip purpose, days, times, location, and available resources. These restrictions are subject to change in effort to optimize MCAT’s service delivery. If the time requested is not available for TD clients, alternative days and/or times available are offered.

Cancellations

Cancellations must be made at least 2 hours prior to scheduled pick up. To cancel, please call (941) 748-2317. For cancellations prior to 8 a.m., call (941) 748-1135.

Fare

MCAT Handy Bus is currently a Fare Free Program.