The ADA & Transit

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is an important civil rights law passed in 1990 that has greatly increased the transportation options for people with disabilities. The law called for improvements to transportation services, including the availability of paratransit service. The ADA does not require a transit agency to meet all the transportation needs of individuals with disabilities, but rather, it ensures that people with disabilities receive "the same mass transportation service opportunities everyone else receives."

Accessible Transportation Options in the Baltimore Region

For most people using public transportation, the most convenient and flexible way to travel is by bus or train. Generally, this option is less expensive and often requires minimal planning. The following accessibility features can be found on most transportation systems in Maryland (contact your local operator to find out more specific details about transit in your area):

• Buses and trains equipped with wheelchair lifts or low floor ramps to allow easy access for people with disabilities.
• Priority seating for those who need to sit closer to an exit.
• Drivers trained to provide assistance in securing wheelchairs in designated spaces.
• Bus drivers trained to allow passengers time to be seated, and to get on and off the vehicle safely.
• Announcement of stops at major intersections, transfer points and, at the request of passengers, specific destinations.
• Route and schedule information provided by transit agencies, including the best way to reach your destination. This information is available in accessible formats if needed.

Additionally, mass public transit stations, such as MTA and WMATA Metro stations, have elevators to carry passengers to boarding platforms. Once on the platform, it is easy to board the train.

If you are unfamiliar with using public transit, travel training may be available to teach you how to travel comfortably and safely on a bus or train. Contact your local transit provider for more information.

Riders with disabilities can also use paratransit services. More information on paratransit services in the Baltimore metropolitan area can be found by clicking here.

Title VI Policy Statement

The Central Maryland Regional Transit assures that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 (PL 100.259) be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. The same assurances apply to discrimination based upon race, religion, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, veteran status, or mental or physical status. The Central Maryland Regional Transit further assures that every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all of its programs and activities, whether those programs and activities are federally funded or not. The Procurement and Compliance Specialist is responsible for initiating and monitoring Title VI activities, preparing required reports, and other responsibilities as requested by Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, and Title 49 CFR Part 21. Additionally, Central Maryland Regional Transit hereby adheres to the complaint procedure as established in Central Maryland Regional Transit statement of Equal Employment Opportunity.

For more information and/or complaints:
Nancy Huggins
Title VI Coordinator
Central Maryland Regional Transit
312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 1000
Laurel, MD 20707
Phone: 240-581-5800
Fax: 240-294-5249
Email:corporate@cmrtransit.org