Parallel Transit is a personalized door-to-door transportation service for residents who cannot use our regular transit service because of a disability.
Who is eligible
You may be eligible for Parallel Transit if you fall into one of these categories:
- permanent: you need the service indefinitely
- temporary: your doctor has prescribed temporary use
- conditional: environmental or physical barriers, such as winter conditions, limit your ability to use conventional transit
- visitor: you are visiting St. Thomas and registered with another Ontario Parallel Transit system
Some scooters and electric wheelchairs are permitted on board, depending on size, weight and type. A transit operator must verify your device. If approved, you will need to transfer yourself to a fixed seat, since drivers cannot lift riders for safety reasons.
How to apply
- Complete a Parallel Transit Application (print or fillable PDF)
- Complete Part A yourself or with a designated individual
- Complete Part B if you have a valid Accessible Parking Permit from the Province of Ontario. If you complete Part B, you do not need to complete Part C
- If you do not complete Part B, ask your regulated health care practitioner to complete Part C
There is no fee to apply. We typically process applications within 14 calendar days. If we need more than 14 days and you need transit in the meantime, we will grant you temporary status until we reach a decision.
Appeal a decision
If the applicant disagrees with a City decision regarding eligibility for the Accessible Technical Committee in relation to a parallel transit application, they have the option to file an appeal. The appeal process for eligibility will be completed within 30 calendar days. However, if a final decision is not reached within this timeframe, the requester will be granted temporary status until a final decision is made.
Riding Parallel Transit
- be ready 2 minutes before your scheduled pickup window. Drivers are not required to wait longer
- give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel
- allow for a wait time of up to 30 minutes from your scheduled pickup window, especially in bad weather
- wear your seatbelt
- do not smoke on board
- service runs from accessible door to accessible door
If a driver arrives and you are not ready within 2 minutes, we will record a no-show. Your first no-show is free. Subsequent no-shows require full fare payment.
Book a ride
Book using the RCT OnDemand App or by calling 519-631-0001 during operating hours. You can book up to 7 days in advance.
Have this information ready when you call:
- your name
- your requested pickup date and time
- your registration number
- your payment method
- your pickup and destination addresses
- whether an attendant will accompany you
Show your Parallel Rider card to the driver when boarding.
Bring a companion
A companion may travel with you if space is available. Frequent companions can request an attendant card from the transit depot. Attendants ride free.
Dependents may travel with a parent or guardian if the appropriate child restraint equipment is available.
Book recurring trips
If you travel regularly to the same destination, you can set up a standing booking through the app or by phone. Recurring trips last 7 days and must be renewed.
