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August 08, 2005
National Council on Disability Makes Transportation Recommendations for People with Disabilities
WASHINGTON—The National Council on Disability (NCD) released its report The Current State of Transportation for People with Disabilities, stating
that improvements have been made in transportation for people with disabilities, but more remains to be done.
The report was developed with the input of individuals with disabilities and transportation professionals from around the country. The purpose in undertaking
this project was to develop a better understanding of access to transportation and mobility for people with disabilities, including access to traditional
public transportation systems, private transportation services, alternative transportation initiatives, and the pedestrian environment; to identify transportation
barriers as well as promising practices and models; and to develop recommendations in keeping with the goals of President Bush’s New Freedom Initiative
to “expand transportation opportunities for people with disabilities.”
According to Lex Frieden, NCD chairperson, “There have been many advances in America’s transportation systems and services for citizens with disabilities,
particularly since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The U.S. Department of Transportation and the nation’s public transportation
industry are to be applauded for their part in bringing about this progress. However, research reveals that many barriers to transportation continue to
exist that prevent the full inclusion and full participation of people with disabilities in society.”
The report highlights industry best practices and successful initiatives that can serve as models for communities for enhancing transportation and mobility
for people with disabilities. This report also sets forth a variety of recommendations for service improvements and for additional research that will lead
to greater options for the 6 million Americans with disabilities who have difficulties obtaining the transportation they need to live independent and productive
lives. For more information visit www.ncd.gov.
Posted by Karen Thomas at August 8, 2005 06:51 PM