Here are some of the comments we have received so far from our ADA Transition Plan Survey.
Is there anything PBOT missed in this draft transition plan?
"Under training, the section talked about PBOT staff getting training on compliant curb cuts. With all the accessibility request programs (sidewalk, pedestrian signal) and the Bike and scooter projects, I would recommend broader disability accessibility training be provided to all PBOT staff. This would fit nicely in the transportation justice efforts mentioned in the plan, and I'd recommend it also extend beyond this workgroup to all staff."
"While I appreciate the focus on increasing walkability, I would really like for the PBOT to consider how to expand the streetcar system to increase equity and access for all Portlanders."
"Yes. How needs of people with disabilities interact in the different spheres of transportation: pedestrian, cyclists, motor vehicle users. Some of your changes make it difficult for someone with disabilities to go from one form to another, e.g., motor vehicle to pedestrian."
Where can accessibility be improved?
"The lack of a city snow and ice removal program creates recurring accessibility since the City cannot reasonably or effectively enforce the existing snow-and-ice removal ordinance with private homeowners and businesses."
"Navigating mental health crises and transit in a way that does not involve law enforcement."
"Access to healthcare systems such that disabilities can be documented (and which can then be used by disabled folks to obtain Honored Citizens cards and discounts on transit) are difficult at the best of times, and currently nearly impossible given COVID-19. Please consider lowering the amount of documentation you require for these."
"More publicity on billboards and city buses of programs for people with disabilities"
"The access to stops and/or removal of dividers on benches for hostile architecture and disability reasons."
"Accessibility can be improved in almost every aspect of modern society. Public transit is not properly equipped for many disabilities, building codes need to include more accessibility especially for government building and housing, and schools and school buses in particular need improved accessibility in all aspects."
What are ways the City can provide opportunities for on-going accessibility feedback from interested stakeholders?
"Seek out people with disabilities using Portland streets and ask them what changes would be helpful and what changes made could be improved. Maybe put up signs asking for input in areas where you are thinking of making changes or have made changes."
"Provide more information and resources. We often do not know where to turn for support and accommodations."
"Online forms like this are excellent for disability outreach because they are easily accessible to people who might have difficult going to a physical location or speaking on the phone. I encourage more, better advertised online outreach allowing people to share their thoughts on how accessible the city is."
"Multiple site visits to gather in-person feedback, with a question about accessibility and usability. Also consider visiting transit sites after an ice or snow event to document the impact of ice and snow covered sidewalks, bus stops and train platforms."
Additional general comments and recommendations:
"I would also suggest a proactive plan to assess and identify sidewalks that are in need of repair. While the reporting mechanism is well-intentioned, there are too many broken and lifted sidewalks for a user-driven complaint mechanism to be effective or equitable."
"Having worked with adults with developmental disabilities in the past, I was pleased to see this and feel that the planning is very detailed and presented clearly."
"Please provide a public forum to thoroughly evaluate PBOT's approach to sidewalk maintenance. The Pedestrian Advisory Committee and/or the Disability Advisory Committee might be a good place to start. I would like to be involved in the discussion."