The “You” in Universal Design

Adopted over 30 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act was a major step forward in opening up public spaces and transit to people with disabilities. Mission accomplished? Not quite. Chances are everyone will face mobility challenges at some point in their lives. Access barriers also affect people with children in strollers, luggage bags, bicycles or groceries. Yet, access solutions often look and feel awkward and unpleasant. Are switchback ramps and motorized lifts really our best solution? Universal Design says we can do better. Learn what Universal Design is and isn’t, why it’s important, and emerging guidelines and standards. Hear how one transit agency is incorporating Universal Design into their sustainability mission and the challenges of putting Universal Design in practice in a “legacy” city. You’ll come away with a better appreciation for how the design of public space and transportation facilities affects you and your mobility experience.

Facilitator: David Goodman, AICP, RA, Active Transportation Program Manager, Jacobs, Arlington, VA
Annie Boivin, PhD Candidate, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
Anne Tyska, AICP, Sustainability Initiatives Manager, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), Philadelphia, PA
Anna Hooven, PE, Program Manager – Bridges & Buildings, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), Philadelphia, PA