Benefits · Transportation
How to apply for ECAT — Escambia County Area Transit (Fixed Route + Pensacola Beach Trolley + ADA Paratransit)
Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) — operated under the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners; designated Community Transportation Coordinator for Florida Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) program; fixed-route bus network plus seasonal Pensacola Beach trolley, University of West Florida on-campus trolley, and ADA paratransit (FlexTransit + Independent Transportation Logistics)
Who it's for
Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) is the public transit system serving the greater Pensacola metro area and Escambia County. The service mix includes fixed-route buses across Pensacola and unincorporated Escambia, the seasonal Pensacola Beach trolley, the University of West Florida (UWF) on-campus trolley, and ADA paratransit. Standard fixed-route bus fare is $1.75 with free transfers. ECAT's ADA paratransit is a door-to-door specialized service for riders with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route service — advance reservations are required so routes can be developed efficiently; a small per-ride fare may apply. Paratransit eligibility intake is handled by FlexTransit at 850-471-6657 or ITL (Independent Transportation Logistics) at 850-332-2209. ECAT headquarters is at 1515 W Fairfield Drive, Pensacola FL 32501. Beyond ADA paratransit, the Florida TD framework also supports demand-response trips for seniors and low-income riders — age 60+, documented disability, OR transportation-disadvantaged income status each qualify under the TD pathway. Call ECAT customer service for general route information.
ECAT's fixed-route bus network covers the Pensacola urban core well but coverage thins meaningfully in unincorporated Escambia County and the rural northwest portions. Seniors in lower-density areas should pursue ADA paratransit or the Florida TD-funded demand-response option for door-to-door service. Senior fare information for 2026 was not surfaced publicly — call ECAT to confirm current senior-fare discount. ADA paratransit eligibility is individually assessed through FlexTransit or ITL (two separate intake providers for ECAT's paratransit). Advance reservations are required for paratransit; same-day rides are not available. The Pensacola Beach trolley is seasonal — typically summer months — and serves beach access more than utility for everyday seniors.
What you'll need
- Proof of age 60+ OR documented disability OR low-income TD eligibility (Medicare card, Florida ID, physician note, income documentation)
- Proof of Escambia County residency (utility bill, lease, or government correspondence)
- For ADA paratransit: completed FlexTransit / ITL eligibility application with mobility assessment
- Advance reservation for paratransit (typically 2+ business days)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 850-471-6657
Renewals
periodic re-registration for paratransit; fixed-route is ongoing
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.