Incomplete streets can be particularly vexing for people with disabilities – because the simple lack of a curb cut can present an insurmountable barrier – or one that forces a person using a wheelchair into the danger of rolling down the road.
We’re pleased that our recently completed policy analysis found that about 80% of Complete Streets policies include at least a reference to serving people of all abilities. But we need more than policy language – we need sustained attention to creating accessible streets.
One Coalition partner with a long history of such work is Easter Seals Project ACTION (ESPA), which brings together the public transportation industry and disability groups to improve access to transit for people with disabilities. ESPA recently issued a new Accessible Pathways and Livable Communities Pocket Guide that is a starting point for addressing these issues.
Next week, Easter Seals Project ACTION is presenting a two-part training webinar, Creating Livable, Accessible Communities by Completing Our Streets as part of its 2011 Selected Topics on Accessible Transportation series.
In this two-part training, Complete Streets workshop lead instructor Michael Ronkin and I will examine the ways the current trend toward creating livable communities translates into improved transportation options for people with disabilities, as well as the general public.
Most importantly, we’ll be putting program participants to work, issuing a homework assignment during the session on Wednesday May 18th to help them explore their communities’ efforts to promote the development of livable communities that are accessible to everyone.
When we hold the second session on May 25th, participants will have an opportunity to discuss their findings and the next steps in ensuring the inclusion of disabled people in complete streets processes in their community.
If you are interested, and up for a little homework, please register for this free training session. Registration deadline is this Wednesday, May 11.