The D.C. Taxicab Commission voted today on a plan that would shift thousands of MetroAccess rides to cabs and vans acquired from WMATA.

The new regulations would create the Coordinated Alternative to Paratransit Services program and convert 33 wheelchair-accessible vehicles for taxicab service. Each ride through the CAPS program would cost the D.C. government $17 fewer than MetroAccess rides. “Thus, the subsidy payment from the District government to WMATA to support MetroAccess will be credited as much as $1.8 million for the actual amount of savings based on the number of rides taken through CAPS,” according to a release.

Unlike MetroAccess, riders would not have to stop multiple times and would pay only $5 per ride. During the last budget process, MetroAccess customers spoke about how higher fares are preventing them from accessing medical care. Here’s some of the stipulations:

The Commission’s vote today to publish a proposed regulation sets out the conditions that taxicab companies would have to meet in order to qualify for participation in the program. Key among the requirements for the taxi company is to first purchase a surplus van from WMATA and then replace it after 3,000 dialysis rides with a new CNG-powered, side entrance power ramp wheelchair access vehicle. To qualify for participation in the new service companies also must have a central dispatch capability and meet certification requirements for trained drivers. Grants will be provided through DCTC to companies to meet the federal interest of $4,800. As the thirty three vehicles are replaced, they may possibly be auctioned or donated to a District based nonprofit that services the disabled, low income or seniors.

According to the Post, the new program could be implemented as soon as October.