On February 16, 2009, Fort Bend Transit rolled out the first phase of a new transportation service for rural areas of Fort Bend County. Fort Bend Transit was awarded a “New Freedom” grant by the state to support new public transportation services and public transportation alternatives. The New Freedom grant monies are to be used to fill some of the gaps between human service and public transportation services previously available and to facilitate the inclusion of people with disabilities into the workforce and full participation in the community.  The Arc, in collaboration with Ft. Bend County Transit, the George Foundation and United Way, funds ¼ of the local match dollars required by the New Freedom Grant.

Prior to their first use, individuals or their guardians are asked to register with Fort Bend Transit. The purpose of the registration form is to collect data that demonstrates that the individuals accessing the new program are people with disabilities. The data collection of usage by passengers with disabilities is a requirement of the New Freedom grant. On the registration form, the individual declares that s/he has a disability. The individual must also attach to the registration form written proof of a disability from a medical professional. For example, a member of The Arc could include the individual’s “Determination of Mental Retardation” from Texana Authority or their school district. The registration form only has to be submitted prior to the first usage. The information will be kept on file for future rides. On the registration form, the individuals accessing the program are also asked if they would give permission to be contacted by a government sponsored research group to answer a brief survey about the use of the New Freedom Program. Ridership is not dependent on being a part of the survey. Individuals are free to opt out of the ridership survey.

The Arc of Fort Bend County is providing a registration form for your convenience. Please also refer to the list of van stops and instructions for registering for this service. If you return the form and appropriate written documentation to The Arc, we will forward it to Fort Bend Transit for you, or you may mail it directly to Fort Bend Transit, 12550 Emily Court, Ste 400, Sugar Land, Tx 77478, Attention: New Freedom Registration.