As advocates for customers with disabilities and older adults, Metro’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) is seeking new members to continue helping shape accessibility across the Metro system. The design of Metro’s new 8000 Series rail cars, low-floor buses and budgets are just some of the important issues the AAC is involved in.
According to WMATA, the AAC, which was founded in 1979, advises Metro’s board of directors on transportation issues that may affect public transportation accessibility for people with disabilities and seniors. The 20-member board is made up of members from Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia and is seeking to fill three vacancies representing Arlington County, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, the City of Alexandria, the City of Falls Church or the City of Fairfax.
AAC members are required to attend one meeting per month in addition to subcommittee meetings. This position is volunteer and unpaid, but members provide an important perspective to ensure equity and accessibility for people with disabilities and seniors who use Metrobus, Metrorail and MetroAccess.
To be eligible to apply, applicants must meet the following requirements:
You are 65 years of age or older or have a disability You live in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Alexandria, Falls Church, or Fairfax You regularly use Metrobus, Metrorail, or MetroAccess
Metro employees, contractors and elected officials are barred from serving on the board.
AAC has been active with Metro and the Board on important issues that have led to design changes and service improvements. Last year, AAC members joined Metro in New York City to evaluate trains with open gangway designs for the new 8000 Series rail cars. The group’s efforts have also led to improvements to the 7000 Series inter-car barriers that inform blind and low-vision passengers of the space between cars, as well as gap reducers that make it easier for wheelchair passengers to board trains.
Nominees are selected by the board of directors and should reflect a diverse demographic, including seniors, people with disabilities, or those who need assistance accessing the system. The AAC meets on the first Monday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The board includes six members each from Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia, as well as two members of the public.
If you are interested, you can download a complete/printable AAC Membership Application online or call Systemwide Accessibility at 202-962-1100 and request an application. You can complete the application online or email your completed application to us. [email protected]or by mail to the WMATA Accessibility Advisory Committee, 4100 Garden City Drive, 603-01-C, Hyattsville, MD 20785.
The deadline for applications is Friday, July 19, 2024 at 5 p.m. Additional information is also available on Metro’s Accessibility Advisory Committee page. Photo courtesy of WMATA