ePolicyWorks Transportation Online Dialogues Search Ideas

USDOT should create a program that provides incentives for local communities to create ADA compliant sidewalk and bicycle networks. The program should consider neighborhoods that have been impacted by federally funded road building in the past in ways that made biking and walking harder or less safe.

If each rider had an account-based Mobility electronic balance transfer card, that card could be used on participating transit systems, micro transit, bikeshare, taxi and other ride providers. Monthly passes could be purchased on-line. Ride Subsidies from Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, and human service agencies could be loaded monthly (just as is done for food stamps on SNAP cards).

Since transit is morphing to intermodal... more »

Can't remove unidentified barriers. Suggest that people with disabilities be recruited in this effort. Several methodologies have been used in this effort. One may be "Maps for Easy Paths (MEP): A Mobile Application for City Accessibility". Volunteers (or paid staff) can be recruited from local Centers for Independent Living. Payment is advisable both since training is required and payment is incentive to provide standardized... more »

Transit is morphing towards intermodal linked trips, where frequent fixed route (Bus & Rail) connects intense land uses. Suburban residential and office/industrial parks will be connected to transit hubs with less-frequent transit/shuttle routes and demand-responsive services booked using apps and call centers. Transit hubs are designed for easy, safe and quick transfers between fixed route transit, the demand response... more »

Cities in our area are connected by "regional" or "commuter" routes as opposed to "fixed route" service. This means that Paratransit doesn't run between communities. This leaves people with significant disabilities few options:

1\. In theory, someone with a disability could use paratransit to connect to the regional route, take the regional route to the other city, and then use paratransit to get to their final destination.... more »

I'm excited about the option of micro-transit to help bring public transit to harder-to-serve areas, like neighborhoods with large yards (which typically don't have the density to support fixed-route service). However, it's imperative that any micro-transit is physically accessible.

I don't think the goal should be "Increase the number of existing transit facilities that are accessible, while ensuring that all new facilities meet accessibility standards." The goal should be that all existing transit facilities are made accessible. Why is it ok that some facilities are not accessible?

Not knowing if a sidewalk will be complete, have curb cuts, or be free of snow makes it very difficult for people with disabilities to have full mobility.

Rural isolation in unincorporated areas of counties makes it financially and geographically difficult for urban and suburban transit to provide needed door to door pick up when it is 7 miles or further to the rural location from the edge of the urban or suburban setting where services are available. Nonprofits can provide the dead end trips that allow rural isolated seniors and adults with disabilities who are unable... more »

When I participate in large transportation-related events, such as APTA, CTAA, NADO, etc., it is apparent that the transportation industry workforce lacks diversity regarding individuals with disabilities. One way to influence transportation operations and services is to have individuals with disabilities as decision-makers in the transportation workforce. To enhance awareness of employment opportunities, youth with disabilities... more »

Edge lane roads (ELRs) are a class of roadway which includes Advisory Bike Lanes and Advisory Shoulders. ELRs support two-way motor vehicle traffic within a single center lane and vulnerable road users (VRUs) such as bicyclists, wheelchair users, or pedestrians in the edge lanes on either side. Motorists may use the edge lanes, after yielding to any VRUs there, to pass approaching vehicles. ELRs are called Advisory Shoulders... more »

Two years ago, my husband used a rollator to board a Metrorail train with me. I quickly attempted to fold it and place it between seats when the train took off immediately and my husband was knocked off his feet. To my horror and that of the other passengers, he fell. Thanks to his muscular, well-padded frame, he was uninjured. We haven't used Metrorail since.

It's not obvious where rollators should be stored during... more »

Not everyone has access to or the income to afford a cellphone, iPhone or the internet, yet we all need access to transportation. Please make this system so that everyone somehow can get the support we need, even without electronic connections.

\- The pick-up window on paratransit is a large barrier for people with disabilities. Shortening this window would significantly make transportation much more accessible for people with disabilities.

\- The cost allowed for paratransit is significant for low-income individuals. Some people with disabilities choose not to take trips as they cannot afford the fare.

\- The advance scheduling requirement forms a barrier.... more »

Please make transportation better for people with disabilities. Train cars need to roll on and no steps.