Connection Plus
On April 8, 2025, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners approved new guidelines for Palm Tran’s paratransit services. These guidelines will designate and align with the service area as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Beginning January 18, 2026, Palm Tran will offer two programs under the new guidelines:
- Connection ADA – Pick-up and drop-off within the ADA-required area (within ¾ mile of Palm Tran’s fixed-route network)
- Connection Plus – Pick-up and drop-off for eligible customers who need transportation outside the ADA area
These updates align Palm Tran’s service area with federal ADA guidelines and are designed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of paratransit service. Palm Tran will continue to follow the same eligibility, reservation, and trip-booking processes.
Connection Plus Program Details
Hours of Operation
Service hours will follow Palm Tran’s fixed-route network: Monday- Friday 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Fares
The price of a one-way fare will increase by $0.50, from $3.50 to $4.00. A 50 cents subsidy will be available to low-income customers whose income falls at or below 100% of the federal poverty guidelines, allowing them to continue paying $3.50 per one-way trip.
Trip Negotiation
Trip times will be negotiated at the time of reservation to maximize the use of available vehicles. Scheduling will reflect vehicle availability and operational efficiency.
Travel Times
Travel times will be based on trip distance and may resemble travel times on the fixed-route system.
Trip Prioritization
If TD trip requests exceed the available program funding, trips will be prioritized in the following order:
1. Critical care
2. Medical services
3. Nutritional services
4. Employment and daycare
5. Quality-of-life activities
Mobility Consultations
Customers who can ride the fixed-route system will receive a mobility consultation to discuss fixed route options. Mobility Travel Training is available for customers who want to learn how to use the fixed-route system.
Discounted Fixed Route Passes
Eligible low-income customers using the fixed-route system may purchase a discounted 31-day bus pass.
Fare Subsidy
A 50-cent subsidy is available for low-income customers with incomes at or below 100% of the federal poverty level. Print and fill out the application below. Then submit it to the Eligibility Department via email ConnPalmEligibility@pbc.gov or via Fax with the subject line in capital letters: SUBSIDY APPLICATION to fax number: (561) 656-7156.
Contact Palm Tran Connection’s Customer Service for any further questions on how to apply for the subsidy by calling (561) 649-9838, Option 6.
FAQ's
Connection Plus provides paratransit transportation for low-income individuals and persons with disabilities who qualify under the Transportation Disadvantaged (TD) program. This service covers trips with pick-up and/or drop-off locations outside the ¾-mile ADA corridor where Connection ADA does not operate.
Connection Plus serves all locations that fall outside the ¾-mile ADA corridor. This includes destinations that are not eligible for Connection ADA service but are still within Palm Beach County’s designated Transportation Disadvantaged service area.
Palm Tran operates multiple fixed bus routes throughout the county. When we refer to “¾ of a mile,” we mean any location that is within three-quarters of a mile on either side of a Palm Tran fixed route.
Trips that start or end beyond the ¾-mile fixed route network are provided through Connection Plus.
Scheduling a Connection Plus trip works the same way it always has. Riders can book trips by phone, through the Palm Tran Connection website, or using the Palm Tran Connection app. Trips may be scheduled up to three (3) days in advance and no later than 5:00 p.m. the day before travel. When booking, you’ll receive a pickup window based on your requested arrival time.
There are no changes to how you pay for your trip. The $4.00 fare is per one-way trip and may be paid using EZ-Wallet or exact cash. Riders who qualify for a fare subsidy may continue to pay the reduced fare of $3.50 per one-way trip.
Yes. A Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may ride for free with the client. Up to two additional fare-paying companions may also travel with the rider.
Connection Plus ADA trips will continue to be provided door-to-door.
Connection Plus Non-ADA trips will be provided curb-to-curb, meaning drivers will pick up and drop off riders at the curb.
Under the Connection Plus program, you may be transported from your pickup location to a nearby fixed-route bus stop traveling in the direction of your destination. If your destination is outside the ¾-mile fixed-route network, Connection Plus may also assist with travel to the final destination, based on service availability.
You may contact our Customer Service team for assistance with travel training. A representative will review the fixed-route bus options available in your area, explain schedules and routes, and help you understand how to use the service.
