Madison Reporter

The City of Madison is collaborating with accessibility experts to enhance the usability of its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system for all residents and visitors, particularly those with disabilities. This initiative involves a comprehensive evaluation of transportation and pedestrian systems across various city agencies.

Metro Transit has committed to ensuring BRT accessibility by engaging local specialists. Recently, Metro invited Rebecca Hoyt, the City of Madison Disability Rights and Services Specialist, along with Jason Beloungy and Ben Hinkel from Access to Independence, to review buses, stops, and new fare systems.

"Access to Independence shares the goal of a BRT system that is usable by all passengers with disabilities and is pleased to support the City of Madison’s efforts to accomplish this goal," said Jason Beloungy, Executive Director of Access to Independence.

Access to Independence is a local disability-led organization within the national Independent Living network. The organization is consulting with the city as it updates its ADA Transition Plan. "We are thrilled to be partnering with local leaders in access and inclusion to improve transportation options for residents with disabilities," Hoyt stated.

The ADA Transition Plan helps identify potential compliance issues within transportation and pedestrian right-of-way systems while guiding future access improvements.

Metro has incorporated several accessibility features into the BRT project:

- All platforms, facilities, and crossings will adhere to the latest ADA guidelines.

- Street crossings at stations will feature wide continental-style crosswalks with signals.

- Pedestrian signals will include audible cues.

- Five new traffic signals will be added along the corridor for safer street crossing.

- Many platforms will be centrally located in streets, reducing crossing distance.

- Information signs will offer both visual and audible information.

- Platforms will align levelly with buses for easier boarding by individuals with mobility challenges.

- Bridge plates will close vertical gaps between platforms and buses quickly without slope.

- New wheelchair securements on buses will allow users either self-securement or driver assistance for greater independence.

- Platforms will have detectable warning fields and tactile strips indicating door locations.

- Heated concrete on platform edges and ramps will facilitate snow clearance during winter events.

Additionally, an updated electronic fare system includes audible and braille displays alongside multiple payment options. Metro staff plan summer training sessions on using this new system.

Continental crosswalks are longitudinal stripes marking pedestrian pathways across roads. These high visibility markings alert drivers and cyclists about expected pedestrian crossings.