How to apply for Public transit and senior taxi fare (SWITA and Council Bluffs Metro Area Transit) — Pottawattamie in Iowa

Who it's for

Southwest Iowa Transit Agency (SWITA) is the public transportation system for all residents of Pottawattamie County and seven other southwest Iowa counties. On-demand rides are available Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. (not on holidays), and all vehicles are handicapped accessible. In-town taxi rides cost $3.00 one way for the general public, or $2.50 for riders 60 and older with a Connections Area Agency on Aging form. Medical transportation costs $35 per hour. Call 1-800-842-8065 to schedule a ride. In Council Bluffs, Metro Area Transit (MAT) runs city bus routes. Riders age 65 and older (or 62 to 64 with a Social Security award letter or pension proof) and Medicare cardholders can apply for a Metro half-fare photo ID card and ride for $0.60 a trip, with a $27.50 half-fare 30-day pass; the half fare does not apply to paratransit. For Council Bluffs route and schedule information call 402-341-0800; for Council Bluffs paratransit applications call 712-890-5296.

What you'll need

• Connections Area Agency on Aging form (for the $2.50 senior taxi fare)
• For the Metro half fare in Council Bluffs: half-fare application, photo ID, and a Medicare card or proof of age (age 62–64 also needs a Social Security award letter or pension proof)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Public transit and senior taxi fare (SWITA and Council Bluffs Metro Area Transit) — Pottawattamie. 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 connections Area Agency on Aging form (for the $2.50 senior taxi fare), for the Metro half fare in Council Bluffs: half-fare application, photo ID, and a Medicare card or proof of age (age 62–64 also needs a Social Security award letter or pension proof) — 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

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