Gadabout vs. ADA Paratransit: What is the difference?

Gadabout operates two different types of service. They operate regular Gadabout service and they also have a contract with TCAT to operate TCAT's paratransit service. Gadabout operates both types of service simultaneously with the same fleet of buses. This section will explain the difference between Gadabout and ADA paratransit (operated by Gadabout) and the eligibility requirements for each.

What is this service and who is it for?

Gadabout: Gadabout is a nonprofit transportation service for older and disabled residents of Tompkins County.
ADA Paratransit: ADA Complementary Paratransit is a specialized, door-to-door transportation service for people who are not able to ride the fixed-route transit system because of a disability.

What are the eligibility requirements?

Gadabout: To be eligible you must be disabled or be 60 or older.
ADA Paratransit: To be eligible you must have a disability that prevents you from riding the TCAT fixed route system.

I meet the eligibility requirements, how do I set up a ride?

Gadabout: Just call up Gadabout at 273-1878 to set up your ride.
ADA Paratransit: You must be ADA certified. Certification is obtained through an application process with TCAT. An application can be obtained by calling 277-9388 x420. Click here for more specific information.

Who operates this service?

Gadabout: Gadabout
ADA Paratransit: Gadabout - TCAT has a contract with Gadabout to operate the ADA complementary paratransit service.

When is service available?

Gadabout: Gadabout services are available Monday - Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm. There is no service when the Gadabout office is closed.
ADA Paratransit: Paratransit service operates in the evenings and on weekends. Days and times are dependent on the TCAT bus routes that serve the ares in which you will be traveling. Paratransit service operates on days that Gadabout is closed as long as TCAT is running on that day.

What areas are served?

Gadabout: Gadabout can take you anywhere in Tompkins County. Gadabout can also dictate when they will serve a particular area in order to facilitate scheduling.
ADA Paratransit: Paratransit serves the areas within 3/4 mile of a TCAT bus route. You can not be denied a ride to a particular area if there is a TCAT bus going to that area at that time of day.

Can I use this service for any reason?

Gadabout: Yes, however priority will be given to medical / dental appointments and getting to work over personal errands and social events.
ADA Paratransit: Yes. ADA trips may not be prioritized based on purpose.

How far in advance do I have to call to set up a ride?

Gadabout: You must call two business days in advance to set up your ride. Longer trips are more difficult to coordinate so they may require more notice.
ADA Paratransit: ADA Paratransit requires advance reservation which can be set up by calling the Gadabout scheduling office at 273-1878. Reservations must be made at least one day prior to the day of travel, however, placing your reservation two business days in advance or by 2pm the business day before is greatly appreciated. Please call earlier in the day if it is possible.

What is the fare?

Gadabout: • Zone 1 fare is $1.50 per one-way trip. This includes any trip with an origin and
                     destination within the Ithaca city limits.
                    • Zone 2 fare is $2.00 per one-way trip. This includes any trip with an origin or
                      destination outside of the Ithaca city limits.

ADA Paratransit: • Zone 1 fare is $2.00 per one-way trip. This includes any trip with an
                                origin and destination within the Ithaca city limits.
                              • Zone 2 fare is $3.00 per one-way trip. This includes any trip with an
                                 origin or destination outside of the Ithaca city limits.

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