ANTONOVICH MOTION TO IMPROVE ACCESS AND SAFETY FOR DISABLED ON MTA BUSES AND RAIL LINES

 

 

 

       

 

PRESS RELEASE	Contact:  Tony Bell, Communications Deputy Office:      (213) 974-5555   Cell: (213) 215-5176 E-mail:     tbell@bos.lacounty.gov
June 25, 2009	For Immediate Release
ANTONOVICH MOTION TO IMPROVE ACCESS AND SAFETY FOR DISABLED ON MTA BUSES AND RAIL LINES
LOS ANGELES COUNTY – A motion by Supervisor Antonovich directing MTA staff to reevaluate and improve safety and access for the disabled on its bus and rail system was unanimously approved by the MTA Board of Directors.  The motion was co-authored by Supervisors Gloria Molina, Mark Ridley-Thomas, Don Knabe and Director Diane DuBois.   In addition to ordering disciplinary action for drivers who fail to provide adequate service to the disabled and a full accounting of legal costs stemming from ADA litigation, the motion directs the MTA Chief Executive Officer Arthur Leahy to report back to the board in 60 days on staff’s progress implementing programs to:   ü Ensure MTA drivers are properly trained to meet the needs of disabled patrons, and  disciplined or fired for mistreatment or poor service for disabled patrons.   ü Allow disabled patrons to identify easily MTA contact information to access information and register complaints and concerns.   ü Complete a review of future MTA transit vehicles and ensure they meet the needs of the disabled community.   ü Ensure that MTA is engaged in continuous discussions with the disabled community to provide input for new bus and rail car specifications that accommodate safe wheelchair access and stowage and other safety equipment needs.
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