Uncertainty and the fear of doing something wrong can cause people to avoid new situations and experiences, or at least put the task off until it’s absolutely necessary to do it. Riding a bike doesn’t come easily for many children, but most people learn at an early age with the help of parents, siblings, or friends.
Capital Area Transit wants to calm the fears and uncertainty associated with using public transportation in Bismarck and Mandan. A mobility travel training program was started this past June to educate and assist groups and individuals interested in learning how to ride the CAT buses.
A part-time mobility trainer has been hired to provide one-on-one training with a focus of working with senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The process involves a session to complete paperwork and cover map reading. If the person chooses, times will then be set up for the mobility trainer to ride with the individual so they learn how to safely and correctly use the CAT bus system.
Training took place on July 30 to show service providers how they can get their clients to utilize public transportation. The afternoon session covered map reading, determining the best routes for clients, and the benefits of developing individual transportation plans. After the brief classroom time, the participants rode around Bismarck on the buses to get firsthand experience with identifying correct buses, using transfers, and signaling to get on and off the bus.
For more information or to schedule a time for a presentation or one-on-one training, please call 323-9CAT (9228) and ask for Misty Staiger.