Advocates demand better public transit for disabled community

During a recent St. Louis County Council meeting, discussions centered on the pressing need for improved public transportation services for individuals with disabilities. A key speaker, who has lived with disabilities, highlighted the challenges faced by those reliant on public transit, particularly in South County, where options are severely limited. The speaker emphasized that accessible transportation is not just a luxury but a necessity for many, including those with physical, developmental, and mental health disabilities.

The speaker recounted their personal experience of moving to a new apartment with better access to public transit after their previous residence lost its bus service during the COVID-19 pandemic. They expressed concern over the potential need to relocate again due to the non-renewal of their lease, underscoring the complexities involved in finding suitable housing that meets both financial and accessibility needs.

A significant point raised was the outdated nature of the paratransit plan, which had not been updated since 1992. The speaker urged the St. Louis County Council and Metro Transit to commit to enhancing transportation services across the region, advocating for a system that is safe, affordable, reliable, and accessible for all residents.

Council members acknowledged the improvements made in recent months, particularly in communication and engagement with the disability community. However, they also recognized ongoing issues, such as the limited capacity of current services and the need for a more user-friendly reservation system. The speaker noted that while Metro allows reservations up to three days in advance, other cities offer more flexible options, which could greatly benefit users.

The conversation also touched on the challenges posed by ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, which, while offering some convenience, often come with high costs and accessibility issues. The speaker pointed out that many individuals with disabilities face barriers when using these services, including drivers refusing to transport service animals.

As the meeting concluded, there was a collective call for more inclusive decision-making processes within Metro Transit, emphasizing the importance of involving the disability community in discussions that affect their transportation options. The establishment of a new ADA advisory committee was seen as a positive step, but participants stressed the need for it to have real decision-making power to ensure effective outcomes for all users.