The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Accessible Transportation Program Cited in New Report on Intellectual Disabilities

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI) was cited in a new report by the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

"Innovations in transportation technology will greatly advance connectivity for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in so many other functional areas of their daily lives," notes the report. "However, availability and accessibility are not enough. Training in the use of the technology is essential. Whether technological innovations are created to increase accessibility to transportation, education, job searches, health access, community engagement or other aspects of life, a strong training component must be a companion to any new technology design."

ATTRI is a multi-agency initiative, led by the USDOT, that researches, develops, and implements transformative technology solutions for travelers with disabilities to effectively plan and executive their travel. ATTRI research focuses on the needs of people with disabilities, veterans with disabilities, and older adults.

The initiative proposes technology development in areas such as information and technology services, automation and robotics, data integration, wayfinding and navigation, and enhanced human service transportation. Cloud-based navigational systems, wearable devices, and interactive pedestrian crossing supports are also proposed for future development.

View the full report, Leveling the Playing Field: Improving Technology Access and Design for People with Intellectual Disabilities