Yale University is committed to providing accessible transportation solutions for its community members with disabilities. The Yale Transit service offers a vital secondary transportation option for individuals with permanent or temporary disabilities to navigate the campus effectively. It is important to note that this service is designed for on-campus transportation between university locations and does not extend to off-campus or residential addresses.
To utilize this valuable service, eligible individuals must complete an application process and provide relevant medical documentation to verify their need for accessible transportation. Enrollment in the program is valid from July 1st to June 30th annually. For individuals with a verified permanent need, a simplified renewal application process, without requiring repeated medical documentation, is available each year to maintain their access to the service.
Participation in the Accessible Transit program is exclusive to the approved applicant, and a University ID is necessary when using the service. Misuse of the program may lead to suspension of services. Enrolled members can conveniently request transportation services through a dedicated mobile application. Individuals requiring an exception to the app-based system should communicate their needs to the Accessibility Office during enrollment to ensure proper documentation and alternative arrangements. Annual renewal is mandatory to continue accessing the service beyond June 30th each year. Upon approval, individuals are added to the Yale Transit system and can immediately begin requesting rides as needed. Please be aware of the service schedule and holiday closures outlined below.
Requesting a Ride on Yale’s Accessible Transit Vans
There are multiple ways to request a ride using Yale’s accessible transit service:
- Phone: Call 203-281-5470 and follow prompt #1 to speak with a dispatcher.
- Mobile App: Download the Yale Accessible Transit app, available for both iPhone and Android devices. Search for “Yale Accessible Transit” in the iOS App Store or Google Play Store to locate and install the application. For guidance on using the app, download these instructions.
Service Animal Policy on Transit Vans
Yale Transit welcomes passengers traveling with service animals on its Transit Vans and shuttle buses. To ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, service animals are required to be securely leashed and are not permitted to occupy seats. Yale University recognizes service animals as guide dogs, signal dogs, or other animals specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. These tasks can include, but are not limited to, assisting individuals with visual or hearing impairments, providing minimal protection, aiding in rescue work, pulling wheelchairs, or retrieving dropped items. While dogs are the most common type of service animal, Yale acknowledges that other types of animals may also qualify as service animals under applicable regulations.
Hours of Operation for Accessible Transit Vans
Yale Transit vans operate during the following hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Please note that accessible transit services are unavailable on the following holidays and designated university holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Additional Accessible Transportation Resources
For individuals seeking further accessible transportation options, the Freedom Fund Taxi Voucher Program offers a 50 percent discount on taxi fares for passengers with disabilities. For application details and to enroll in this program, please contact the Greater New Haven Transit District directly at 203-288-6282.
