Hello NATAN!

It’s the final opportunity to take ATRC’s survey on transportation accessibility! [https://forms.gle/YiwFfdZD5ZPJjDz79] Whether you are a transportation user, provider, or advocate, this short survey is for YOU. Your input will be used to share accessible transportation practices from across the country. The survey closes Friday, December 20 (tomorrow!).

Take the survey here!

We’re glad you’re here! The National Accessible Transportation Accelerator Network (NATAN) Newsletter is ATRC’s monthly update on accessible transportation around the nation. Keep reading to learn about upcoming events, resources, opportunities, and more.

ATRC Office Hours: The Future of Accessible Autonomous Vehicles

January 16, 2024 | 1:00PM – 2:00PM Eastern Time

Autonomous vehicles are a promising option for non-drivers, but it’s critical that accessible autonomous vehicles meet the needs and preferences of users. Join the Accessible Transportation Resource Center and Dr. Sivashankar Sivakanthan, a member of the ATRC Steering Committee, for an Office Hours session on the future of autonomous vehicles and accessibility. Register for the Office Hours here.

Join April’s New Transportation Advocacy Committee

January 16, 2024 | 2:00PM Eastern Time

The Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) is starting a new Transportation Advocacy Committee which will meet on the 3rd Thursday of every other month. Register here for the Transportation Advocacy Committee meeting.

Evaluating Transportation Affordability: How Planners Can Better Respond to Demands for Lower Cost Travel

Affordability is an important but often overlooked transportation planning issue. This report provides practical guidance for evaluating transportation affordability and achieving affordability goals.

Transportation Cost Burden Falls Significantly for Second-Lowest, but No Other, Income Group

USDOT’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics shares updates on US transportation spending.

The High Cost of Transportation in the United States

Data shows that the percentage of income spent on transportation in the US is high compared to other industrialized countries. Read more about US transportation spending in this article from the Institute for Development and Transportation Policy.

Grant Writer Index

National RTAP launched a Directory of Grant Writers to connect transit managers looking to contract with grant writing consultants available for hire. Grant writers listed have provided their information voluntarily. Grant writers who wish to be added can email info@nationalrtap.org with contact information and a summary of grant writing experience.

Enhancing Real-Time Communications Workshop

On January 28th and 29th from 1:00-4:00 PM Eastern Time join N-CATT to learn more about how you can use your real-time information internally and externally. Plus, if you stick around until the end of Day 2, you'll get to hear about some exciting grant opportunities. Sign up for the workshop here.

New CCAM Technical Assistance Center Launched

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) are pleased to announce that the new Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center (CCAM TAC) launched on December 10, 2024. The CCAM TAC will collaborate with CCAM agencies to offer support and guidance on providing transportation for people with disabilities, low-income individuals, and older adults. 

Bus Safety and Accessibility Grant Applications Due January 17, 2025

This competitive grant program is to research standard design and develop prototypes to make existing and new buses safer for operators, riders, and vulnerable road users, as well as more accessible for passengers. The deadlines to apply is January 17, 2025. Learn more about the Bus Safety and Accessibility program here.

• Semi-autonomous robots may be the future for accessible infrastructure
• SamTrans Board makes same-day paratransit pilot part of suite of mobility services
• Arrowhead Transit works to improve transit experience and accessibility with tech updates
• Longmont launches new on-demand transit service
• Newton commuter rail station getting a serious upgrade
• DOT Announces New Rules to Protect Passengers with Disabilities