Overview
Dial-A-Ride (DAR) is Ben Franklin Transit’s door-to-door paratransit service for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from using the regular fixed-route bus system. As a federally mandated ADA complementary paratransit service, Dial-A-Ride operates throughout the Tri-Cities area, Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco, and is one of the most important transportation options available to individuals with disabilities in our community.
Columbia Ability Alliance is a proud community partner of Ben Franklin Transit’s Dial-A-Ride program. Many of CAA’s programs, including the Community Center and Nexus Youth Club, are Dial-A-Ride eligible, which means participants can use DAR as their transportation option to and from CAA’s Kennewick location.
Who It’s For
Adults and youth with physical or cognitive disabilities that prevent them from independently using BFT’s fixed-route bus system. Eligibility is based on disability-related functional limitations, not a specific diagnosis.
What’s Included
- Door-to-door service — pick up and drop off directly at your location, not just a nearby bus stop
- Shared-ride model — you may travel with other passengers; the bus may make several stops before reaching your destination, so build extra time into your schedule
- Wheelchair and mobility aid accommodation — vehicles are ADA-accessible; indicate your equipment needs when booking
- Companion and PCA rides — eligible riders may be accompanied by a companion or Personal Care Assistant (PCA) at no additional charge
- Service animal and pet accommodation — arrange in advance when booking
- Free transfer to BFT fixed-route bus — your Dial-A-Ride pass also allows travel on the regular BFT bus system
Hours of Operation
- Monday–Friday: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM–6:30 PM
Service does not operate on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, or Christmas Day.
Fares
- $1.50 per boarding (within ¾ mile of a fixed route)
- $3.00 per boarding (beyond ¾ mile from a fixed route)
- $12.00 for a 10-Ride Ticket book
Eligibility and How to Apply
All riders must be certified as eligible before using Dial-A-Ride. The application includes a Licensed Provider Verification Form that must be completed by a licensed healthcare provider.
Steps to apply:
- Pick up an application in person at Three Rivers Transit Center, 7109 W. Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA 99336
- Call (509) 735-0160 to request an application by mail
- Download the application in English or Spanish at bft.org/dial-a-ride
Mail completed applications to: Ben Franklin Transit, ATTN: Dial-A-Ride, 7109 W. Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA 99336
Applicants will receive an eligibility determination within 21 days of submitting a complete application. If BFT doesn’t respond within 21 days, presumptive eligibility is granted on the 22nd day.
If your application is denied: You can appeal within 60 days of your determination letter by submitting a Dial-A-Ride Eligibility Notice of Appeal. Forms are available at bft.org/dial-a-ride.
How to Book a Ride
- Schedule your reservation at least one day and up to seven days in advance
- Call to reserve: (509) 735-0160, Monday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Book online at bft.org/dial-a-ride (online reservations reviewed Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:45 PM only)
When booking, have ready: your name, pickup and drop-off addresses, appointment date and desired arrival time, return trip needs, and any mobility equipment or service animal information.
BFT Dial-A-Ride Overview | Download Application (English) | Download Application (Spanish) | Book a Ride Online | Download the DAR Brochure (English) | Download the DAR Brochure (Spanish)
