South Central Transit

The mission of South Central Transit is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective public transportation to the citizens of the communities we serve. We are committed to enhancing economic development and quality of life through affordable, accessible transportation services. Our South Central Transit team pledges to provide courteous service to our customers and aggressively meet the changing needs of our region.

SCT is an equal opportunity employer that promotes a drug and alcohol free environment.

Passenger's Bill of Rights (return to top)

Should you have a complaint against a driver or vehicle displaying the SCT logo, or would like additional information, please contact 618-532-0189 ext. 135.

South Central Transit (SCT) provides public transportation through a demand-response and fixed route, non-emergency service.

SCT provides service for the counties of Marion, Jefferson, Clinton, Washington, and Franklin, and Perry County.

SCT’s office hours are 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday-Friday. Scheduled transportation is available Monday through Friday as follows:

Our offices are closed on the following holidays:
New Year’s Day	Columbus Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day	Veterans Day
Presidents Day	Thanksgiving Day
Memorial Day	Friday after Thanksgiving Day
Independence Day	Christmas Eve
Labor Day	Christmas Day

Door-To-Door Service

Door-to-door service is available per customer request. Passengers must request service through the dispatching department at the time of scheduling transportation. With door-to-door service, the SCT driver (or escort) assists the passenger from the door of the pick-up point to the SCT vehicle and from the SCT vehicle to the door of the destination point. Under no circumstances will the driver be allowed to enter a client’s residence or apartment building beyond the first outer door or ground floor lobby and, therefore, cannot perform any personal services for the client. Door-to-door service is provided as long as conditions make it safe to do so.

IN THE EVENT OF ANY QUESTION OF SAFETY, REGARDING ANY TRANSPORTATION SERVICE, IT MAY BE NECESSARY FOR AN ON-SITE INSPECTION BY THE COUNTY SUPERVISOR. THE COUNTY SUPERVISOR WILL MAKE THE DETERMINATION AND INFORM CLIENT AT THE TIME OF REVIEW.

Curb-To-Curb Service

Curb-to-curb service is provided unless door-to-door service is requested. Curb-to-Curb service is provided to passengers who have purchased a discounted monthly pass, and/or daily fare clients. With curb-to-curb service, the SCT vehicle stops at the curb for passenger pick-ups and deliveries. SCT driver's will assist passengers boarding and de-boarding the vehicle as long as the passenger has requested assistance.

Service for Disabled Clients

SCT is committed to meeting the needs of the disabled community. Our drivers undergo sensitivity and passenger relations training as well as training in evacuating elderly and disabled passengers. Individual instruction sessions in using the services of South Central Transit can be arranged for persons with disabilities by contacting the office at 1-800-660-7433. Suggestions for improvements in our services for the disabled are always welcome. Please call or write the office or leave your suggestions on our website.

Aides for persons with disabilities may accompany a paying passenger at no extra charge if the aide provides door-to-door assistance for the passenger. Service animals are allowed to assist a passenger with his/her disability. Passengers needing mobility aids must provide their own. SCT complies with ADA by attempting to accommodate all wheelchair and mobility aids in common use (including Amigos, Rascals, and other scooter style devices). Because of the difficulty in providing an effective restraint system for users of scooters for mobility, if physically able, SCT clients using any type three-wheeled scooter as their mobility aid will be asked to be seated in a conventional seat while the vehicle is in motion. This request is made so the client will have lap and shoulder restraints available for use. *During loading or unloading process of the electric mobility aid, the power supply switch shall be turned "OFF" while on the lift with the brakes "SET". After the electric mobility aid is spotted in the bus for transportation service, the power supply switch is to be turned "OFF" during transportation.

Extra time is allowed for loading and unloading of vehicle for clients with disabilities.

Wheelchair Service

Many SCT vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and tie-downs for persons with mobility impairments. Inform our dispatchers of your special needs when scheduling transportation.

For safety and liability reasons, South Central Transit adheres to the following guidelines:

Clients utilizing a wheelchair will be allowed to transfer to a regular seat in the vehicle, if the client requests to do so, and is able to complete the transfer with no assistance from the driver. Drivers are not permitted to lift, or pull any client to enable them to get in a regular seat.

SCT reserves the right to refuse service to any client who will not allow their wheelchair to be secured utilizing the 4-point securement system within the SCT vehicle. SCT drivers have been trained to use a 4 and 6-point tie-down system for all wheelchairs to guarantee the safest securement possible.

SCT reserves the right to refuse services to any passenger who has unsafe equipment. The driver will make final determination of unsafe equipment.

The South Central Transit Board of Directors strongly encourages the use of seatbelts. Please advise your driver should you wish to utilize Lap and/or Shoulder belts, and he/she will be more than happy to assist you.

For new clients, a home assessment will be performed prior to any scheduled service. SCT will not provide service when the client’s ramp and outside doors are not accessible according to state and federal laws.

A. If you do not know the standards and need accessibility survey to be performed, and/or need information on how to have a ramp built, contact the Opportunities for Access Center at 1-800-938-7400.

B. Make sure ramp and wheelchair paths are properly paved and kept clear of snow, ice, parked cars, trash, or other obstructions. Drivers will be unable to perform requested door-to-door services should they determine that ramps or walkways are unsafe. Curb-to-Curb services will still be available to the client.

D. SCT drivers will assist clients in loading and unloading groceries/packages from the SCT vehicle. However, the driver will not carry groceries/packages.

F. Clients will be asked to review and sign a waiver should they elect to remain in a power chair and/or mobility aide vs. transferring to a regular seat. Waiver will also be reviewed and signed for all new clients at the time an assessment is conducted. Waiver may be located here.

Reservations, Scheduling and Cancellations (return to top)

Customers must call 1-800-660-7433 a minimum of one day in advance to schedule transportation. (8am-3:30 pm Monday - Friday) SCT will not guarantee reservations taken past 3:30 P.M. the day before service is required. Intra-county and intercity subscription service requires two-day advance scheduling and a minimum of 3 riders. Customers receiving same-day service will pay “same-day service” fare.

The dispatcher will not be responsible for confirming appointments with doctors, etc. A pick-up or delivery time may be adjusted by the dispatcher/scheduler, if necessary, in order to maintain efficiency; therefore, riders are encouraged to be ready 15 minutes prior to a scheduled pick-up time. Drivers will wait no longer than five (5) minutes past arrival time before proceeding.

Cancellation Policy (return to top)

In an effort to coordinate and distribute services to the greatest number of people in our service area, the following policies will be implemented:

SCT encourages and appreciates patrons who cancel in a timely manner. Cancellations should be received 24 hours in advance or as early as possible to give other consumers the opportunity to schedule into that time slot. SCT understands that emergency situations do arise that prevent a full 24-hour notice, and will accept cancellations up to 2 hours prior to the scheduled pick up time without penalty; however, clients are strongly encouraged to call as early as possible for cancellations.

Late Cancellations

1. Cancellations must be received a minimum of two hours prior to the scheduled pick up time. This can be achieved by either contacting the dispatching/scheduling staff during normal business hours (7:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.) or through SCT’s voice mail system, which is available during non-business hours.

2. Any cancellation received later than two hours prior to the scheduled pick up time will be considered a NO-SHOW and a $2.00 late fee will be assessed.

This policy is intended to encourage early cancellation of services so that others may have the opportunity to fully utilize SCT's services.

Excessive Cancellations

SCT encourages all clients to call in to cancel transportation services as described above, however, to avoid excessive cancellations which prevent fair and equitable use of the transportation system by all clients, an excessive cancellation policy will be implemented as follows:

1. SCT personnel will monitor weekly activities of all scheduled vs. cancelled rides. Clients observed to have six (6) cancellations within any 30-day rolling period will receive a written warning via mail.

2. Those clients who have received the written notification and who have in excess of six (6) cancellations in any future 30-day rolling period following the notification, will be charged a $2.00 excessive cancellation fee per cancellation thereafter for a period of 6 months.

The above policies apply regardless of the method of payment and include clients who pay boarding fares, utilize ticket booklets or purchase a monthly pass.

Discounted Passes (return to top)

Discounted monthly passes are available for purchase as follows and are valid for one calendar month. No refunds will be made for unused passes. In order for passes to be valid, ALL pick-ups, transfers, and returns must be scheduled a minimum of one day in advance.

Senior Passes (return to top)

SCT offers a discounted monthly pass for senior citizens (age 60+). The pass may be used for unlimited trips within the city limits of residence of the passholder during the month for which it is purchased. ALL pick-ups, transfers, and deliveries must be scheduled at least one day in advance.

Child Passes (return to top)

All child passes are a flat rate of $40.00 per month regardless on whether service is needed one-way or round trip. Family discounts are no longer available due to the rising cost of fuel. This entitles your child to ride daily Monday-Friday from your home or daycare facility to school and from school to the destination of your choice within the city limits – Pre-scheduled transportation only. Payment of your child’s monthly pass is due by the 18^th of the month for the following month’s service. A grace period of 7 days will be allowed. If payment is not received by the close of business on the 25^th, we will make your child’s seat available to the person on the waiting list. **Please note; if the due dates fall on a weekend or holiday. Payment will be due the business day after.**

**Excessive no-shows or cancellations may result in termination of services. See Passenger No-Show Policy and Cancellation Policy. **

Fares (return to top)

All passengers must comply with SCT’s fare policy. Fares must be paid upon boarding of the vehicle unless alternative prior arrangements have been made. Fares are listed as per stop and not round trip, unless otherwise noted.

		Curb-to-Curb Service
Seniors	(60 and over)	$0.50
Seniors - Mt. Vernon	(60 and over) Suggested of Donation	$0.50
Adults	(17-59)	$1.00
Children	(8-17 without adult)	$1.00
Children	(8-17 with adult)	$0.50
Children	(0-8 with adult)	No Charge
Same Day Service	(regardless of age)	$3.00
Child Pass 1-Way	K-8th Grade	$40.00
Child Pass Round-Trip	K-8th Grade	$50.00
Senior Pass	(60 and over)	$15.00
Adult Pass	(13-59)	$30.00

The above fares/passes are only valid with one day prior scheduling of all pick-ups, transfers, and returns.

*Free service for residents of Mt. Vernon age 60+ is provided in conjunction with Jefferson County Comprehensive Services. For more information contact 1-800-660-7433.

Group Transportation (return to top)

Groups of 4 or more riders traveling to the same destination (outside of SCT’s prescribed routes and service plan area) are considered contractual services and are charged SCT’s current hourly contract rate.

Contracted Services (return to top)

In addition to the provision of public transportation, SCT also offers transportation services to businesses/agencies on a contractual basis. Services are normally contracted when an organization requires transportation services for more than 4 clients at designated times and on designated days. Services may be contracted for a single trip, (i.e. field trip) or for recurring services (i.e. daily transport to a daycare).

Contracted services are normally charged on a per mile and/or hourly basis, but may also be negotiated on a voucher or captivation basis.

Service contracts normally carry a term of one year and contain terms agreed upon by both entities in addition to standard requirements and policies of SCT. Contractual services may have other rules and regulations than outlined in this policy.

Groceries/Packages (return to top)

SCT drivers will assist passengers in loading and unloading their groceries/packages on and off the vehicle. Passengers are responsible for getting their packages from the vehicle to their home. Aides may accompany a paying passenger at no charge to assist the client with packages. For safety reasons and for the consideration of other passengers, SCT must insist on a limit of 5 total grocery bags or items.

Drivers will assist clients with their packages from the vehicle to their destination point on the Grocery Days only. An eight-bag limit is available on grocery days.

Passenger Conduct and Responsibilities (return to top)

SCT will not be responsible for checking/signing persons in or out of any facility.

SCT requires all passengers to be courteous and considerate of other passengers and the driver. Instructions from a driver are to be followed by all passengers. Behavior that may affect the safety of other passengers or the driver or create a safety hazard to other passengers/drivers or others will not be tolerated. Continued carriage of such persons or groups will be decided on a case by case basis, and may require the presence of one or more attendants to be provided by the family/residential or daycare facility/social welfare/health care agency as appropriate.

SCT’s Board of Directors strongly encourage that ALL passengers utilize seat belts while the vehicle is in motion. Please advise your driver should you wish to utilize lap &/or shoulder belts and he/she will be more than happy to assist you.

Inappropriate behavior such as eating, drinking, use of tobacco products, foul language, lack of personal hygiene, disruptive behavior, bothering of other passengers, horseplay, fighting, carrying of weapons, possession of illegal drugs or substances or having open containers of alcohol on the vehicle will result in the passenger being suspended from riding SCT vehicles.

SCT reserves the right to refuse service to any individual violating these policies.

Any person(s) who is found to loiter at the pick up point specifically for the purpose of making the driver wait the full 5 minutes before boarding may be suspended from service

Passenger No-Show Policy (return to top)

In this policy, a no-show is defined as the act of a person who, having scheduled a trip, changes his/her mind about making the trip but does not cancel the appointment within the 2 hour prior time frame or allowing the vehicle to arrive but not boarding it.

The purpose of this policy is to set forth the procedure for informing users of South Central Transit about the importance of scheduling service appointments and of properly canceling those services a minimum of 2 hours in advance, should services no longer be needed. Any rider who fails to cancel at least 2 hours prior to their scheduled service will be considered a no-show. It is also to let consumers know that an established pattern of no-shows may result in suspension of services.

Each successive no-show will be charged at $2.00 per no-show. Services will continue to be provided through 3 no-shows. Once he/she reaches the third no-show, services will be suspended until such times as he/she goes to the local SCT office to pay the $6.00 in outstanding no-show fees. No scheduling will be allowed until the $6.00 is paid in full at the local SCT office.

Client information will be reviewed on a monthly basis. Clients determined to have chronic no-show problems may be suspended for up to 3 months to allow room for those clients who really need and will use the service.

Determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis and are at the sole discretion of South Central Transit.

All new riders should expect to show a picture ID at the time of his/her first boarding for identification purposes. Riders may, at any time, be required to show a picture ID upon request to verify identification.

Any rider who creates alias names in the system in order to avoid paying penalty fees will be permanently removed from the service based upon a determination of fraud to the District.

Subscription services are intended for those individuals who use the service from one destination to another destination at the same time and on the same days of the week. These services eliminate the need for a client to call in on a daily/weekly basis to schedule rides except in the case of a cancellation. Holding a subscription service is a privilege as there are a limited number of subscription services available. If you have a subscription service and no-show three times within a rolling 60-day period, your subscription service will be canceled and offered to another passenger. In addition, all no-show fees will apply. You will not be considered for subscription services again for a period of one year.

No-shows that occur because of an emergency situation beyond the customer’s control will be considered a “non-chargeable” no-show, provided the customer can offer an explanation with documentation. A “non-chargeable” no-show can only occur one time within any calendar year.

The above policies apply regardless of the method of payment and include clients who pay boarding fares, utilize ticket booklets or purchase a monthly pass.

SCT is committed to being responsive to passenger perceptions about our services. We encourage your comments and recommendations. Please forward all recommendations and/or complaints to the following address:

Customer Service
South Central Transit
1616 E. McCord Street
Centralia, IL 62801

SCT solicits both positive and negative input from our passengers. All comments and complaints will be handled in a timely and efficient manner. Response to complaints and/or comments will usually be handled within a 24-hour period.

SCT is responsible for providing clean, reliable, safe and efficient service to our passengers. SCT is not responsible for any articles left on its vehicles, however, SCT maintains a lost and found box in its offices, and individuals may call our offices regarding these items. SCT is responsible for abiding by the policies detailed in other sections of this service policy.

SCT has insurance coverages that exceed legally mandated minimums. SCT is regulated by State and Federal guidelines. These guidelines are met and, in most instances, are exceeded. SCT also maintains a drug and alcohol free workplace through a federally mandated drug/alcohol-testing program.

SCT has stringent guidelines for maintaining all of our vehicles. SCT is committed to keeping all vehicles and equipment properly maintained and in safe working order.

SCT drivers are properly trained and licensed in accordance with state and federal laws. SCT drivers receive quarterly/annually training in safety including, emergency procedures, seat belt and wheelchair tie-down procedures, evacuation procedures and other areas.

SCT drivers inspect their vehicles on a daily basis through the use of a Pre-Trip Inspection form. A certified mechanic immediately addresses any problems noted.

South Central Transit does allow for transportation of animals, other than service animals, if the client has complied with the following requirements:

A. When scheduling the ride the client informs dispatching/scheduling that annimal will be brought on the bus.

C. The client will be solely responsible for loading and unloading the animal into the carrier and onto the SCT vehicle. Removal of the animal from the SCT vehicle after reaching the destination point.

E. The client follows the driver’s instructions regarding the animal’s transportation.

At no time will any animal other than a service animal, be transported without being in an approved, secured containment device.

Service animals will be required to remain on the floor and out of the aisle area of the bus. The client utilizing the service animal will be responsible for the conduct of the service animal.

SCT will not operate its vehicles during severe foul weather or when roads are icy and unsafe. Should SCT limit services due to inclement weather, the changes will be broadcasted on the local radio stations.

WDDD 107.3; WFRX 1300 AM; WVZA 92.7; WQUL 97.7; WDDD 810AM. Information is also available on-line at w3dcountry.com.

SCT drivers are thoroughly trained in emergency evacuation procedures in the event of an accident. Basic procedures include: following driver’s instructions, remaining calm, implementing an orderly evacuation of the vehicle if warranted, staying off the roadway in a safe location until further notification, not smoking near the vehicle and calling for emergency response if required.

Passengers are responsible for notifying the driver if they or another passenger are ill, injured, or in distress while on the vehicle.

SCT is an equal opportunity employer. Equal employment shall be practiced without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental handicap unrelated to ability, political affiliation or unfavorable discharge from military service.

SCT is proud to be a part of the community. We encourage your comments and suggestions. For further information please contact 1-800-660-7433, visit our website (www.southcentraltransit.org) or write:

General Public Service Policy - Revised: January 7, 2004

Mission Statement (return to top)