A new rule aims to clarify accessibility requirements to help state and local DOTs upgrade their facilities more quickly to meet ADA standards.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued finalized guidelines for accessibility on public transit, reports Dan Zukowski in Smart Cities Dive.
According to the article, “The rule applies only to new or rebuilt public transit stops and shelters in the public right-of-way, including boarding areas, pedestrian access paths, fare vending machines and signage.”
The rule aims to create a set of uniform guidelines to help state and local DOTs understand accessibility needs and how to implement changes. “The 2021 infrastructure law made $1.75 billion available to state and local governments to help fund projects that repair, modify or retrofit public transportation rail stations for accessibility. In addition, DOT recently worked with Amtrak to increase accessibility at some of its train stations.”
Recently, USDOT has also issued recommendations for making electric vehicle charging stations accessible and improving accessibility on airplanes.
FULL STORY: US DOT issues final rule on accessibility standards for transit riders

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
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