A: First, visit http://www.projectaction.org/.
The site covers all aspects of public transportation, including paratransit,
transit facilities, and training drivers.
Most of the information is downloadable, including the following free
publications:
Pictured right: When it comes to connecting bus stops with sidewalks, use
Michele’s KISS method: Keep it Simple and Straightforward. If a sidewalk is
blocks away, add or move a stop instead of building new sidewalks, curb ramps,
and pads. Photo: Institute of Transportation Engineers.
Follow a few basic steps
Next, here’s the approach you should take when you consider how to connect
bus stops to existing sidewalks:
- Keep barrier-free design front-of-mind.
- Look for the simple approach. Often, adding or moving a bus stop is all
that’s needed to avoid building new sidewalks, curb ramps, and pads.
- Remember the hearing- and vision-impaired when formulating wayfinding
information and guidance.
- Always make safety and warning systems integral components of facilities,
stops, and shelters.
- Remember, the ADA guidelines (10.2.1 New Construction & 10.2.2 Bus Stop
Siting and Alterations) are minimum guidelines.
Partner whenever possible
When I was with the City of Kansas City, Mo., I networked with the project
managers for our area transportation authority — which set up bus stops and
designed and built shelters — to redesign bus shelters to be
wheelchair-accessible. We also reviewed bus stops for accessible pathways and
approaches.
As a team, we moved some of the stops or added more to specifically address
the needs of those with disabilities.
One example was a complex for residents with disabilities who had to walk
across a very busy boulevard and another two blocks to reach a bus stop. The
authority added a stop, with shelters and pads, right in front of the complex on
both sides of the street.
Another example was a street with a detour due to bridge construction. A
wheelchair user couldn’t get to the bus stop without going five extra blocks.
When we found out about this, authority managers added a temporary stop close to
the wheelchair user’s location until construction was completed.
Perhaps I was just lucky to work with such quality and caring people, but I
don’t think my experience is rare. Instead, I believe that most people do care —
especially public employees.
Section 10.2 of the 1991 ADA Accessibility
Guidelines addresses bus stops, shelters, and stations (10.2.1: New Construction
and 10.2.2: Bus Stop Siting and Alterations).
Both the 2003 ADA – ABA (Architectural Barriers
Act) and 2010 ADA guidelines include transportation facilities and bus stops in
sections 206.2.1 Site Arrival Points and 209 Passenger Loading Zones & Bus
Stops. Section 810 covers transportation facilities including bus shelters.