Implementing Information Technology Projects in Rural and Small Urban Transit Systems

摘要

Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, DC, thousands of individuals fled the cities on foot emphasizing the challenges of rapid evacuation for people with mobility impairments and other physical and mental disabilities. There is a paucity of literature relative to travel, Para transit services, and planning of transit security for this population. Because large urban areas and transportation systems have received the most attention in security planning, the purpose of this project was to determine how transit systems in small urban areas that may also be vulnerable are planning transit security for consumers with disabilities. The literature on terrorism and other emergencies, transit security, and Para transit services was reviewed and a structured telephone survey was conducted with five Para transit agencies in small cities. Five agencies in large urban areas were also surveyed as a comparison group. Respondents agreed that riders with disabilities would have unique challenges in a natural or manmade emergency, but transit agencies in small and large urban areas differed in how they are planning for emergencies and the emphasis placed on safety and security. More security planning and further research in the area of Para transit security is needed.