How to apply for MCAT Fare-Free Buses + Handy Bus Paratransit (Manatee County) in Florida

Who it's for

Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) buses are free to ride: the county says the whole MCAT system is fare free, including the fixed routes serving Bradenton, Ellenton, Palmetto and the Gulf beach communities, the Port Manatee ConneXion on-demand shuttle in northern Manatee County, and the Handy Bus ADA paratransit service. Fixed routes run Monday through Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Route 99 links Bradenton and Sarasota. There is no separate senior fare because no rider pays a fare. Riders who cannot use a regular bus because of a disability can apply for Handy Bus door-to-door service (941-747-8621); the county's Transportation Disadvantaged program schedules rides at 941-748-2317. Rider Information Line: 941-749-7116, mcat@mymanatee.org.

What you'll need

• No fare, ID or pass is needed to ride a fixed-route bus
• For Handy Bus paratransit: an ADA paratransit application and eligibility determination (941-747-8621)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about MCAT Fare-Free Buses + Handy Bus Paratransit (Manatee County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need no fare, ID or pass is needed to ride a fixed-route bus, for Handy Bus paratransit: an ADA paratransit application and eligibility determination (941-747-8621) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

none for fixed routes; Handy Bus eligibility is set by MCAT