The Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation (WCDPW&T) has always reviewed and made reasonable modifications when requested. This Reasonable Modifications Policy formalizes this practice.
WCDPW&T makes reasonable modifications to its policies, practices and procedures when such accommodations are necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability. However, a request for an accommodation will not be granted if granting the request would: fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program or activity; create a direct threat to anyone; the individual(s) requesting the accommodation can fully use the service without the requested modification; or result in an undue financial or administrative burden.
The procedures described herein regarding reasonable modifications apply to all services operated by WCDPW&T including, but not limited to, fixed route services and ADA ParaTransit services. WCDPW&T recognizes that there may be requests for reasonable modifications related to other programs or activities offered by WCDPW&T.
Requests for reasonable modifications for these programs and activities will be handled in accordance with this policy.
The Director of the Westchester County Office for People with Disabilities is the designated position who coordinates WCDPW&T’s efforts in regards to reasonable modifications. Requests for reasonable modifications should generally be made in advance. However, when the request cannot be made in advance, the operating personnel who receive the request (call taker or dispatcher) shall contact the lead dispatcher or dispatch manager for a decision. The decision of that lead dispatcher or dispatch manager is final for the individual trip in question. However, the person making the request for a reasonable accommodation can refer the matter to the Director for review in regards to future trips where such a request is anticipated.
As stated, requests for reasonable modifications are made in advance of service as much as possible. Send requests for reasonable modifications in writing to:
Westchester County Office for People with Disabilities
Evan Latainer, Director
148 Martine Avenue, Room 102
White Plains, NY 10601
Requests of reasonable modifications may also be sent by e-mail to . For inquiries, questions or comments call (914) 995-2957.
The individual requesting a reasonable modification must give his/her name, address, and phone number. The request itself must clearly state the WCDPW&T policy, practice or procedure for which a reasonable modification is being requested. Further, it must clearly explain what modification is being requested and why. The request for reasonable modification does not have to use the specific words “reasonable modification”. However, it must be clear what is being requested. The request for the reasonable modifications is granted unless one of the following situations exists:
1. Granting the request fundamentally alters the nature of WCDPW&T service or services, programs or activities.
2. Granting the request creates a direct threat to the health or safety of the driver or anyone else.
3. The individual can fully use the service, program or activity as intended without the requested modification.
4. Granting the request results in an undue financial or administrative burden.
In the event that a request for a reasonable modification is denied, WCDPW&T will work with the individual or individuals making the request to identify and implement alternative actions, steps or modifications that can be taken to ensure that the individual receives the service or benefit sought.
WCDPW&T recognizes that requests for reasonable modifications may come through the WCDPW&T complaint process. WCDPW&T handles any complaint that is in fact a request for a reasonable accommodation in accordance with this policy.
All requests for reasonable modifications are logged and maintained. This policy is available on the WCDPW&T web site.