TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Kathleen Kelly, Interim General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Accessible Wayfinding Technology Updates
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ?
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider receiving an update on accessible wayfinding hardware and software technology solutions. [Requested by President Shaw - 8/7/2024]
Staff Contact:
Ahsan Baig, Chief Information Officer
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
Goal - Prioritize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Initiative - Internal and External Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Programs and Priorities
Convenient, safe, and accessible wayfinding remains a challenge for AC Transit's diverse ridership. By integrating modern accessible technologies, the District can better serve all riders, particularly those with vision impairments.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
This report has no fiscal impact. Funding for the tactile maps was allocated in prior and current fiscal years. The website contract is an ongoing expense in the operating budget under software licenses.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
Improving accessibility in transit services is a core objective of AC Transit. In FY 2024 and FY 2025, the District allocated funding for accessibility pilot projects and enhancements focused on meeting the needs of riders with vision impairments. Staff in the Marketing, Communications, and Customer Service Department, working in collaboration with other departments, has led several initiatives to expand access for low- and no-vision riders.
Tactile Stop Maps
To support blind riders, staff partnered with Lighthouse for the Blind to produce tactile paper-based maps featuring embossed graphics and braille that identify bus stops and the bus lines that serve them. Used alongside the accessible AC Transit website, these maps help riders navigate complex transit hubs.
In collaboration with the Accessibility Department, staff piloted the maps with potential end users, ...
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