(JULY 1, 1999 - Baltimore) -- Individuals and human service providers seeking information on transportation services for special populations in the greater Baltimore region might find the answers they need in the third edition of Out and About. This Directory of Specialized Transportation Services in the Baltimore Region was compiled and is updated periodically by the Baltimore Metropolitan Council's Transportation Planning Division as a service to the community.

"This publication is an invaluable resource for agencies and individuals needing lift-equipped service or transportation for the elderly," said Baltimore Mayor Kurt L. Schmoke, who serves as BMC Chair. "The public agencies, non-profit organizations and for-profit companies who provide specialized transportation are helping our senior citizens and people with disabilities to remain connected with the community at large."

The directory includes information about types of service offered by each provider, contact telephone and TTY numbers, locations and populations served, route information where appropriate, and fares. Some service providers will also accommodate travel companions, and a few are able to provide a travel companion.

Service providers listed in the directory include the Mass Transit Administration; local transit and paratransit services; non-profit organizations and for-profit companies that offer transportation services on a per-trip or contractual basis; and medical assistance transportation services available through local health departments. The service area includes Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford and Howard Counties.

The listing of a particular agency, company or organization is provided for information purposes only, and does not in any way constitute an endorsement of that service.

Out and About: A Directory of Specialized Transportation Services in the Baltimore Region is available for $5.00 per copy from BMC's Regional Information Center. Send your name and address with a check or money order made payable to Baltimore Metropolitan Council to:

Regional Information Center

601 North Howard Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

Contact Mary Logan at 410-333-4881 for additional information.

"BMC is pleased to provide this information which will help a significant portion of our population remain mobile and productive," stated Paul Farragut, BMC's Executive Director.

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