Public Transportation-

The MBTA’s Riders' Transportation Access Group (R-TAG) reports that the new Routematch software launched in mid-August to improve service and dispatch for the RIDE has been problematic. The RIDE has uploaded a web portal FAQ page, and R-TAG wants to hear about any problems you have, as well as urge you to report them to the MBTA!

Consider attending an October 15 evening quarterly general meeting to find out the latest on the RIDE, projects to improve system accessibility, and priorities in these difficult times. They want to hear what mobility-challenged users need!

Does your bus stop need work? Let the MBTA’s Better Bus Project know. They’re working through reconstructing over 700 bus stops with "critical" or "significant" barriers to accessibility right now.

The GBC’s Advocacy Committee (GBC AC) will be tracking the MBTA’s Forging Ahead initiative, which will be making service cuts and system redesign to cope with COVID-related budget shortfalls. You can highlight the importance of the routes and stations/stops you use by submitting feedback on the website.  Also, if you use the MBTA’s fixed-route system (subway, bus, commuter rail, ferry), please let the GBC AC’s transportation lead Abby Swaine know which services and stops/stations you depend on, so she can be on the lookout for opportunities to advocate for them! 

Wheelchairs and Durable Medical Equipment-

The Disability Policy Consortium and the Boston Center for Independent Living are organizing a grassroots campaign to improve consumer experience with Durable Medical Equipment (DME). DME is any equipment used in daily life and independence, including wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, commodes, shower chairs, nebulizers, absorbency products, etc. They are interviewing people who use DME to gain a better understanding of the issues we encounter. The interview will take between 30 minutes and an hour, and can happen by video call or over the phone. Please reach out to Harry Weissman, to schedule an interview: email hweissman@dpcma.org or call 617-977-4084.

Accessible Housing Legislation-

In response to the unprecedented crisis caused by the pandemic, the state legislature has extended their deliberative session until January 5, 2021.  The accessibility advocacy community has decided to focus on the need for more accessible housing.  The ACCESSIBLE Massachusetts Act (H.4425) would ensure that any “gut” rehab of a pre-1991 building converted into more than 20 residential units would make all of its units accessible or adaptable, thus expanding housing options for seniors and people with disabilities. H. 4425 must be enacted into law as soon as possible.”

Save the date:  Tuesday, October 28 at 2 PM, Rally (virtual) for Accessible Housing-

Contact Chris Hoeh for details as they are finalized