On Monday, March 30th the Accessible Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) for the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) will be holding a public forum on accessible public transportation issues affecting people with disabilities. The Forum will consider both Lift Line paratransit services and fixed route buses.

One goal of the Forum is to make people with disabilities aware of the existence and functions of the Accessible Transportation Advisory Committee, which is one of the primary official avenues for public input to RGRTA regarding transportation services to people with disabilities.

In addition to introducing the public to ATAC, this forum will also host guest speakers David Whalen, a Disability Awareness Trainer, and Michael Mule, an Attorney with Empire Justice Center. These speakers will share their knowledge about the public transportation rights of people with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. After hearing from these great presenters, attendees will be invited to speak about their experiences with Lift Line or the fixed route system.

ATAC cannot fulfill its advisory functions unless the disability community participates in ATAC activities. It is typical for advisory committees like ATAC to work collaboratively with the local transit authority, including gathering and analyzing data about transportation service needs and implementation. The disability community can help by identifying issues that they have had with Lift Line or the fixed route systems and suggesting ways that things could improve.

I encourage anyone with a disability who would like to see change within RGRTA to come to the ATAC Public Forum to share your thoughts and learn more about your rights!

For more information you can contact Courtney Totter, ATAC President via email at atac_rochester@yahoo.com or via telephone at 585-271-0966.

EVENT DETAILS:

Location: Kate Gleason Auditorium, Bausch & Lomb Public Library Building
115 South Avenue
Rochester, New York 14604
Date: March 30, 2009
Time: 6:00 P.M. -8:00 P.M.