Intentional Communities of Washtenaw : New transportation services in Washtenaw County

From Intentional Communities of Washtenaw:

This month at the ICW meeting we will learn about what is new in transportation services from the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority. This is a meeting of special interest for persons with disabilities and their families.

 Our presenter will be Brian Clouse who is the ADA/Paratransit Coordinator at Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide).  Brian is responsible for many programs including ARide, GoldRide, Fare Deal, Travel Training, service eligibility and project management of in-house and contracted paratransit services for persons with disabilities, seniors and persons with low-income.  Bus and A-Ride services have recently been expanded and you will want to learn about these changes.

Brian has also told us he will try to bring his travel trainer with him so you can learn first-hand about how to get comfortable taking TheRide.    

These monthly sessions are a great way to learn more about supporting loved ones who are living with developmental disabilities and to meet people who have similar interests.  Whether you are part of Intentional Communities now or are just looking for more information, you will be most welcome.
 
Where & When:
 
Washtenaw Intermediate School District
1819 South Wagner Rd.
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103
(Between Liberty and Scio Church Roads)
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
7:00pm to 8:30pm

Transportation in Washtenaw County

AnnArbor.com features an article today about plans for significantly improving public transportation in Washtenaw County. Three plans have been proposed by the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA). 20 community forums are scheduled from January 31st to February 23rd in communities all over the county to receive public input on the plans.

The three scenarios offer varying degrees of improvements in county transportation over the next 30 years. The basic plan, called "lifeline plus" calls for increasing the frequency of rides, expanding access to the transportation system, especially for people with disabilities and the elderly, expanding hours of operation, bus stop improvements, and expanding links to other city transportation systems. The two other plans offer further improvements and expansion that will provide more flexibility in the system with a view toward reducing suburban sprawl and promoting compact land use.

Transportation improvement planning has been underway for a year. After the forums, AATA will consider public input, pick a plan, and begin implementation.

The availability of reliable and accessible transportation is vital to improving access to jobs and social and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities. Get involved to find out how AATA plans will affect your disabled family member.

For more information, visit the AATA Website on proposed transportation plans for Washtenaw County and see the schedule for 20 community meetings to be held over the next month.

For more information on transportation issues and disabilities, contact Carolyn Grawi at Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living, (734) 971-0277, or email cgrawi@aacil.org . 

Share any concerns you have about transit with Representative Rick Olson from York Township, Washtenaw County. He was recently appointed to the House Committee on Transportation in the Michigan House of Representatives. Phone: (517) 373-1792 ; E-mail: RickOlson@house.mi.gov .