Building Inclusive Transit: Resources and Initiatives for Accessible Public Transportation in Ontario
Regardless of ability, we all utilize transportation in some form. For those living in more urban areas, public transportation like the subway and train are often a first resort for getting around. Reliable and inclusive transportation is imperative to helping level the playing field and ensuring someone’s disability doesn’t hinder them from accessing everything their community offers. This blog will look at resources and initiatives for public transit in Ontario.
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
The province of Ontario has laid out regulations that each municipality must follow. Since its origin in 2005, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) has been enforcing rules and standards to achieve accessibility in various spaces, including buildings, organizations, employment, services, and infrastructure like transportation.
Canada Public Transit Fund
Announced in 2024, the Canada Public Transit Fund will provide an annual $3 billion for transit and existing transit infrastructure to help connect Canadians get where they need to go. Starting in 2026-27, the fund aims to:
- Increase public transit ridership over personal car travel.
- Improve public and active transit options for all, particularly Indigenous people and other marginalized communities
- Help combat climate change
- Increase housing supply and affordability
How the Go Train is Making Travel Inclusive
As a division of Metrolinx, the GO is a widely used service available to those in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Hamilton Area. Each year the Go carries over 70 million passengers with a daily ridership of 74, 700.
Here are some initiatives the GO has taken to foster a more inclusive passenger experience:
Support Person’s can Travel Free
If you need to travel with a support person, they can ride for free. You can purchase tickets at the counter, or if you travel with a PRESTO card, an ambassador can provide you with a Support Person Sticker.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
Metrolinx has recently adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Individuals with a hidden disability can request a free sunflower pin to wear on Metrolinx transit. This pin subtlety indicates to employees that you require some assistance or extra time with your travels.
AccessNow App
Trip planning is a little more manageable with the AccessNow app. The app details the GO’s accessibility features, accessible places nearby, and where to find them.
MagnusCards App
This app offers step-by-step guides using detailed visual clues, audio, and text-based instructions. MagnusCards is designed to empower everyone, especially those with neurodiversity, as they navigate everyday activities.
Canadian Jobs, Work in Transit.
At Live Assets, we take a humanistic approach to recruiting. We know our candidates are more than a resume. Our recruiters take the time to get to know each candidate personally and what drives them. Not only will we find you employment opportunities, but we strive to find a workplace that fits your personal needs.
About Live Assets | Leaders in Engineering Excellence | Greater Toronto Area
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