Hello Beloved BBUUC Community,
Please take note of some concerning upcoming changes at JTA that will adversely affect disability access to transportation. JTA currently has a program referred to as Connexion Plus, which is a door to door ride service for people with disabilities in Jacksonville. Connexion Plus is truly terrific. It functions similar to Lyft or Uber at a reduced cost for eligible people with disabilities; recognizing that many of those who cannot drive cannot afford large transportation costs.
JTA has made the decision without consulting the full advisory committee, to return Connexion Plus to a “shared-ride” service beginning 2/1/26. Shared-ride service implies several individuals sharing a large van/small bus transportation to multiple different locations. This causes transport to become long arduous journeys that do not allow for individual needs and further the discomfort many with mobility issues encounter.
I know several of our beloved members, including me, who use Connexion plus routinely. This essential service gets me to work, takes my children to doctors’ appointments, and even takes me to church for services and Board meetings when Ryan is unable to do so.
Inclusion is an important part of our UU values, and these changes will steal independence, community navigation and involvement from those of us with disabilities who already struggle to be seen in a world that was never quite built for us.
I have provided an email below which gives links with additional information regarding the upcoming changes. The below email also provides meeting times for interested parties to give public comments regarding the changes. Some meeting times are provided via Zoom as well. If you are able, this is a great way to help live our values and help protect mobility for ALL in Jacksonville.
You can also email your feedback. The point of contact at JTA for sharing feedback regarding these changes is Thomas Caulder, and his email address is TCaulder@jtafla.com
If you have questions/need help getting involved please reach out to me. If I do not know the answer, I will find it for you.
Respectfully,
Dr. Emily Townsend PT, DPT