Sustainable development of urban public transport: the case of integrating paratransit service

Abstract

In scientific literature and different levels of political decisions public transport is identified as the priority mode of urban transport. It must be developed comprehensively and should be available to all the members of the society on equal terms. Some of the EU countries are developing urban public transport systems directed towards the common passengers’ transportation service whilst particular interested groups remain on the sidelines. It leads not only to the unused transportation options but also to social exclusion of those groups, unused labour resources, etc. This paper is focused on the identification of the importance and abilities of integration of the transport services (paratransit) for the special group (people with mobility impairments) into a joint urban public transport system. Insights on methodology of integration of paratransit services into the public transport system and potential benefits of integration are presented in the conclusion.