The RTA Travel Training Program Information Ready for Download at RTA Website

May 9, 2014

Warmer Weather Makes Transit Even Easier to Use

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is continuing its work to assure seniors and people with disabilities have access to the region’s robust transit system. The RTA Travel Training Program provides one-on-one and group training to people with disabilities and older adults, giving them the confidence and skills to travel independently on CTA, Metra and Pace buses and trains. Participation in Travel Training is free, except for the cost of the transit fare during training sessions. This information is especially important as we head into the summer months, when transit ridership usually increases.

To make this information even more accessible, updated program information is now available for download in the Travel Training section of the RTA website. This gives agencies that serve people with disabilities or older adults, as well as individuals, easy access to the most updated Program information. The program provided travel training services to over 3,000 participants in 2013, many of whom report the experience changed their lives for the better. Examples include:

“In a sense (Travel Training) changed my life because it helped me to build my confidence to get out more and travel independently. Now I feel like I can take some of my family members on fixed route and show them what I learned. Before they would have to take me out, but now I can show them that I can do it on my own”
--Anna

“(Travel Training) gave Anthony the freedom to go places when he wants to go. He is also more aware of his surroundings.” – Mother of program participant, Anthony

“I learned that I had built up the fear of traveling in my mind and my trainer helped me realize that it wasn’t that hard after all. I used to be real scared of buses but now it’s like “whatever, no big deal!” -- Alexandra

For more information about the RTA Travel Training Program, visit the RTA website at http://rtachicago.com/index.php/rider-services/travel-training, or contact the program directly at (312) 913-3120 or traveltraining@rtachicago.org.