A new transportation option servicing seniors and people with disabilities has debuted in Arlington. Called Tootl Transport, it's a non-emergency medical transportation company founded in Chicago that's now available in Arlington (a city known for its lack of transportation options), as well as Denton, Johnson, Dallas, and Ellis counties.

According to a release, Tootl provides wheelchair-accessible transportation for people with mobility and cognitive disabilities, using special vehicles with drivers who are trained to handle mobility devices and interact with special needs individuals, including those with dementia.

The company was founded in 2012 and began franchising in 2021. It now operates in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Bringing the concept to Arlington are local franchisees Kelsey and Jeff Lindsey. Kelsey has 10 years of experience working in physical therapy, and Jeff has worked in teaching and coaching for 17 years.

“We opened Tootl in Arlington to alleviate any stress so that you, your loved one, or your client can safely 'Tootl' home from the hospital, attend doctor appointments, rehabilitation sessions, school, family gatherings, and more,” Kelsey says.

According to the release, they “move at a comfortable pace,” which seems to indicate that they don’t drive like the lunatics the DFW area is known for.

“Oftentimes, it is family members or friends who have to step in to arrange rides for those in their circle struggling with mobility or cognitive difficulties,” Kelsey says. “Their primary concern is the assurance of safety, the comfort in knowing that their loved ones will be securely transported to essential medical visits or other various occasions.”

One-way trips are $69, plus $4 per mile. For service on weekends, there’s an extra $30 charge. If passengers aren’t on time for their ride, they’re charged a wait fee of $48 per hour.

Passengers can bring up to three companions on their ride, but only one aide is included in the ride cost. Additional passengers cost $6 each way. Tootl rides are available daily around the clock.