The classifieds in this issue offer a diverse group of jobs including a transit general manager and several other executive positions!

On July 26, 1990, ADA was signed into law. On that day, transit agencies nationwide, like Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), had to forever change their perspectives on how they would provide transportation. For people with disabilities, who previously had been excluded from society in many ways, the enactment of this law meant access to a world of opportunity and equality.

The transition was not easy, with bumps on the road along the way before changes were realized.

DART was not initially exemplary in providing paratransit services by any stretch of the imagination. The service was fraught with dissatisfaction and inefficiency. A general lack of understanding about people with disabilities became the greatest challenge to overcome. With the perseverance and hard work of our employees, eventually the agency was able to effectively provide better services, meet the new law’s requirements, and fulfill our customers’ expectations.

Today DART operates a paratransit program that is a model to be emulated throughout the nation. Service improvements include elements such as real-world customer eligibility assessments; computerized scheduling and dispatch functions; and a focus on providing a safe, customer-oriented, and efficient riding experience. Future enhancements will include telephone speech recognition technology and shopper routes to continue fulfilling the spirit behind ADA. Most importantly, the program will continue to enhance the quality of life for thousands of people with disabilities.

The ADA did not only impact DART’s paratransit services program—it also has had an impact on how the agency provides fixed route bus, rail, and commuter rail service. This includes wheelchair lift-equipped buses that make clear announcements, level boarding platforms at train stations, and changing the culture and attitude of staff and contractors to reflect that providing accessible transportation services is everyone’s responsibility.

More work remains to be done, but 20 years after passage of such a pivotal law, DART remains committed to not only following the letter of ADA, but also fulfilling the spirit of its intent.

A DART employee secures a wheelchair on board a van.

 

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