APTA Issues Statement on Day of ADA 35th Anniversary

Today, July 26, is the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas released the following statement:

“Thirty-five years ago, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act, recognizing that economic opportunity requires accessible public transportation. As we mark this anniversary, APTA reflects on how this legislation has shaped our industry and our approach to serving communities.

“Since 1990, public transportation agencies have treated the ADA not simply as compliance, but as a commitment to connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare, and daily needs. Low-floor buses, accessible rail platforms, and improved station designs have become standard practice across our systems.

“Justin Dart, Jr., long considered the father of the ADA, understood the ADA’s true significance when he called it ‘an essential foundation on which solutions will be constructed.’ That foundation has enabled substantial progress, but Dart’s words remind us that our work continues. Success isn’t measured only by meeting standards—it’s measured by how effectively we connect people to opportunity.

“Public transportation serves as critical infrastructure for millions of Americans. When we improve accessibility, we create systems that work better for passengers with disabilities, families, seniors, and all riders. These improvements strengthen the reliability and utility of our networks.

“Moving forward, we need the same practical vision that drove the passage of the ADA. APTA continues advocating for investments and policies that make public transportation more accessible and reliable. We’re building on the foundation established 35 years ago—creating transportation systems that serve everyone in our communities effectively.”