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Buses
Replace buses with those that are wheelchair friendly. (Ramps at entrances, dedicated space for wheelchair and low bell buttons)
Photo courtesy AEI
Buses can be configured for more space for wheelchairs; so that the wheelchair users have space to maneuver freely. Another feature is variable seating arrangements, where seats can be folded to make way for wheelchairs.
Rapid Transit
Trains can take systems have variable seating too. When needed, seats can be folded to make space for wheelchair users. This will allow for easier movement and greater ease for the wheelchair users and other commuters especially when the train is crowded. Otherwise, a permanent dedicated space can be allocated for wheelchair users.
Engineers can come up with solutions to get rid of the gap between the train and platform and train operators can improve on smaller details like LED location indicators on maps or more signage at stations and the area around it.
Seamless. "Photo courtesy AEI."
Photo courtesy AEI
More lifts can be installed in multi storied train stations for the convenience of the wheelchair users and even other commuters like the elderly and those carrying bulky items. This is to reduce traveling to lifts which can be quite a tiring affair for the wheelchair users. Alternatively, the stair climber can be installed.
Wide gates and lower ticketing machines are also necessary. As we all know that the wheelchair users is seated and that some of them might have related illnesses which prohibit complete extension of the arm, thus ticketing machines need to be low enough for them to use it. Wide gates allow for wheelchairs to pass through, of course. Signage is important too so that the wheelchair user does not have to go round searching for the lift or ramp.
Stair Climber "Photo courtesy AEI."
Taxis
There can be more public taxis which boast large cabin space. Possibly more maxi cabs or even introducing new fleets modified taxi vans that have variable seating arrangement like those of 7 SUVs to accommodate wheelchairs and people when needed. The lower costs of maintaining vans are definitely an attractive draw.
Transport companies or charitable organizations can provide specialized door to door services for the wheelchair users. Such services offer unprecedented convenience and is already running in countries like Australia and London. It is called Dial-a-ride in London and it is targeted at people who are unable or virtually not able to take buses or trains. Accessible vehicles are just a phone call away and passengers can even arrange a time for the drivers to bring them home from their initial destination. Fares are very reasonable, at 1.50 British pounds for a 10-mile trip and it is FREE for children under 18 years old, regardless of distance.
Photo courtesy AEI.
Commercial Planes
Plane makers can include dedicated cabin space and a special wide aisle to accommodate the user’s personal wheelchair on the newer planes. This is so that the larger passengers do not have to squeeze onto the narrow aisle chair and the trouble of transferring a passenger onto and off the aisle seat can be eliminated. The passenger and his wheelchair would simply be strapped to the wall with safety belts.
At least one accessible toilet should be included on every new plane. Currently, some newer wide body jets are equipped with one accessible toilet and some others have enough space for the aisle chair to fit into. To make the wheelchair user’s trip a fully enjoyable one, the toilet should be big enough to allow for reasonable movement.
When Cost Is an Issue.
Retrofitting existing infrastructure can cost hundreds of millions of dollars depending on the scale of the public transport system. As such, developing nations or other countries which are tight on budget can actually approach the upgrading in different phases. Costs will be spread over time and the positive evaluation of previous projects can be used as justification for more upgrading to be done to benefit the wheelchair users. This way, it will be easier for the public to put things into perspective, rather than critic at the government’s huge spending on something which does not concern the majority of them very much.