SECTION 22: Modernizing Bus Stops and Shelters for Accessibility
What it says: Section 22 mandates the Commissioner of Transportation and each transit district to jointly create a plan for updating and maintaining bus stops and shelters across the state. The plan must:
- Ensure that all bus stops and shelters meet the physical accessibility guidelines set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Make sure these stops and shelters are user-friendly for people of all ages and abilities. This includes adding sidewalks, curb cuts, ramps, weather shelters, lighting, and real-time information signage.
- Consider installing solar panels at these stops and shelters to power lights and allow for the charging of mobile devices.
- Include strategies for maintaining and ensuring the safety of these stops and shelters after they are built.
The plan must be submitted by July 1, 2024. After that date, any new bus stop or shelter must comply with this plan and the ADA guidelines.
What it means for parents: If you are a parent of a child with a disability, this section is particularly beneficial. It aims to make public transportation more accessible and user-friendly. This could make it easier for your child to use public transit, thereby promoting greater independence and mobility.
