In the lively world of transportation, accessibility and safety take a front row seat throughout ADA/Traffic Safety Awareness Month. This month serves as a platform to help raise awareness of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities while prioritizing overall traffic safety. Join us at the intersection of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the forefront of traffic safety, for a look at how designers are creating an environment where the roads are not only safe, but also accessible for users of all abilities to travel independently and confidently.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted on July 26, 1990, is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against individuals based on disability. The ADA consists of five titles outlining protections in the following areas: employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, telecommunications, and miscellaneous provisions.
Title II of the ADA provides that, “…no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity.”
ADA/Traffic Safety Awareness Month focuses on inclusiveness and encourages communities to advocate for transportation solutions that are accessible to all users. It reminds individuals of the importance of creating easily navigable public spaces and designing safe roadways.
While designers are using their talents and the latest information to create safe streets, it’s up to each of us to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. Explore the infographic below to learn more about how to take an active role in keeping yourself and others safe on the roads.
ADA/Traffic Safety Awareness Month is designed to create a platform for education and action to prioritize safety for all users of our streets and walkways. It provides an opportunity for individuals to collaborate with the community to build locations that are safe and fit the needs of all users. Our Transportation Planning team is committed to enhancing accessible transportation options tailored to individuals with disabilities through their work in developing ADA Transition Plans for public sector clients. By working closely with clients throughout the ADA transition planning process, involving the public early, and tailoring the plan to the specific community needs, Stewart’s Transportation Planning team has successfully assisted numerous communities in evaluating and prioritizing their removal of accessibility barriers, ultimately leading to communities that are equitable and safe for all users.
“The ADA and Traffic Safety are both crucial aspects of planning and designing for a successful public right of way. Leveraging these standards proactively, at the beginning phases of a project, can lead to significant savings for a community and provide an increased quality of life for users of all abilities.” – Harrison Wenchell, Transportation Planning Team Lead
