On February 24, six leading national disability rights organizations (the American Association of People with Disabilities, the American Council of the Blind, Easterseals, National Disability Rights Network, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and United Spinal Association) sent a letter calling on President Biden to prioritize innovative, accessible mobility during the implementation of the new Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
The IIJA presents an historic opportunity for the U. S. Department of Transportation to expand and improve public mobility options for all Americans and provides the Administration with significant new authority and higher funding levels that can be used to broaden transportation access for those living with disabilities, older Americans, and other underserved populations.
Twenty six percent of American adults live with a disability and have limited transportation options, which restricts their access to healthcare, education, and jobs, and impacts their ability to contribute to our economy and communities. Funding new innovative transportation projects that increase and improve accessible mobility, such as on-demand microtransit and tech-enabled paratransit services, are crucial to ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities as those without. Funding improvements for existing infrastructure, such as making sidewalks, roads, and traditional transit stations more accessible, is also crucial in ensuring that all Americans receive equal access to transportation.
The full letter can be viewed here.