NJ Aims To Improve Transit For People With Disabilities
NEW JERSEY — The pandemic exacerbated disability inequities throughout, according to researchers and advocates. But state lawmakers hope to close some of the gaps with two bills relating to disability access in New Jersey's mass transit.
One bill requires the New Jersey Department of Transportation to create an accessibility plan for any roads, highways or transportation projects. The bill is meant to create safe access for all, including bicyclists, pedestrians and people with mobility impairments and/or autism.
The State Senate unanimously passed the bill March 24, advancing it to the Assembly.
“Public transportation is vital for so many New Jerseyans, especially for those in our disabled community,” said Senator Patrick Diegnan (D-Middlesex), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “Unfortunately, research has shown that many adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other intellectual disabilities face seemingly insurmountable hurdles in accessing our public transportation system. These individuals deserve to travel independently, and it is up to us to do everything we can to identify ways to increase their access and familiarity with various public transportation services.”
The other bill — currently in the Senate — would establish a Transportation Research Bureau, requiring certain transportation research to consider the needs of people with physical, sensory, intellectual and developmental disabilities.
People with disabilities have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, according to researchers and advocates. Challenges throughout the nation have included lack of access to COVID-19 testing or vaccinations, which ties into difficulties in transportation for accessing care, according to Massachusetts General Hospital.
During the early COVID vaccine rollout, a lack of homebound options and a primarily online system for getting appointments became a barrier for many seniors and people with disabilities in New Jersey.
The New Jersey Disabilities Action Committee's fall 2020 report criticized the state for failing to protect people with disabilities during the pandemic. The committee's recommendations include ensuring that people with disabilities and their families are represented in all departments, boards, committees and governmental task forces throughout New Jersey.
The state should also evaluate all transportation options available for people with disabilities and use disability budgets to help with spontaneous or unplanned rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft.
This article originally appeared on the Chatham Patch
