Resources for People with Disabilities

Southwest Michigan is home to more than 38,900 people with disabilities who work, play, shop, vote, pursue an education, raise families, and volunteer in their communities. In 1990, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the civil-rights law that ensures individuals with disabilities access to employment, education, state and local government programs and services, businesses, telecommunications, and public transportation.

Today the Disability Network Southwest Michigan promotes cooperation between the transportation industry and the disability community to increase mobility for people with disabilities under the ADA and beyond.

Monday – Friday

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

(269) 985-0111

Of the 44.7 million noninstitutionalized individuals of all ages who reported having a disability in the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey…

21.4

Million Americans currently live with a sensory disability.

20.8

Million Americans report having a mobility disability.

15.4

Million Americans have an “independent living disability.”

Accessible Motorcoach Service

This resource details the rights of passengers with disabilities when using private, intercity “over-the-road” buses (OTRBs), which feature an elevated passenger deck over a baggage compartment. By law, all motorcoach companies must provide accessible service with 48 hours advance notice.

Accessible Pedestrian Signals

This guide explains devices that communicate visual “WALK” signal information through audible, verbal, or vibrating cues.

Accessible Transit

This document outlines a model used by Easter Seals North Carolina to build local “transit coalitions” that advocate for better transportation options.

Bus Stop Assessment Toolkit

This comprehensive manual is a guide for transit agencies and public works departments to evaluate and improve bus stop accessibility.

Service Animals

This booklet defines the legal rights and responsibilities associated with using service animals in public spaces.

Transit Customer Rights & Responsibilities

This summary highlights the standard of service passengers can expect and the behavior expected in return.