In Accessibility, Taking Small Steps Can Lead to Big Rewards

BY LAURA KOPROWSKI
CEO
TARTA
Toledo, OH

As a regular rider of our fixed-route services at the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), it is easy for me and most of our customers to get used to the sights and sounds of a public transportation ride. That environment is not so easy for everyone, which is why TARTA is ensuring that sensory-sensitive passengers can feel safe and valued on board our vehicles.

This spring, TARTA’s paratransit division became the first public transit agency in Ohio to be named a Certified Autism Center. The designation was granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) after TARTA team members had undergone specific training to better understand and accommodate the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive passengers. This is all part of a larger vision led by our partner, Destination Toledo, which is our convention and visitors’ bureau, with the goal of establishing Toledo as a Certified Autism Destination.

“I think it’s important for any visitor planning a trip here to know that their needs are important, their concerns will be addressed, and the barriers to making their way around eased,” said Lance Woodworth, Destination Toledo president & CEO. “It’s so important for TARTA and as many organizations as possible to take these steps to ensure that everyone can explore this beautiful city in comfort.”

Customers with sensory sensitivities do not want anything out of the ordinary. They want to reach their job, medical appointment, or the grocery store in an efficient manner and be as comfortable as possible while doing so. Taking the small steps like the ones our employees have taken can make all the difference in the world.

I could not agree more with Lance and others who have taken these important steps, and I would encourage every public transit agency to do the same. Find out how to get started at ibcces.org and facilitate internal conversations on how your system could better meet the needs of all passengers.