[Massachusetts-NFB] Focus Group Opportunity: Sidewalk-Level Bike Paths and Bus Stops

[Massachusetts Commission for the Blind]

 Focus Group Opportunity: Sidewalk-Level Bike Paths and Bus Stops The MBTA is collaborating with researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Northeastern University to understand the challenges associated when a sidewalk-level bike path is located between the sidewalk and the bus. Riders getting off the bus have to cross the bike path to get to the sidewalk and riders on the sidewalk have to cross the bike path when getting on the bus.    Some of the concerns the MBTA has heard include: Difficulty for riders who are visually impaired to know whether bikes are coming (since bikes are almost silent) A general fear of being hit by a bicycle For riders who use a ramp to get on or off a bus, the conflict that can arise if the ramp overlaps the bike path   The research team is interested in scheduling focus groups with MBTA bus riders who are older adults, riders with disabilities, and riders without disabilities. The research team wants to hear from riders about their experience and observations regarding different designs of sidewalk-level bike paths and bus stops.    Come tell the research team your concerns! The focus group will last a maximum of 90 minutes and will take place via Zoom on June 20, 21, or 22.    Participants will be presented with examples of the different types of bus stops being studied to motivate discussion and answer questions, such as: Do you feel safe crossing the bike lane and boarding/alighting the bus?  What do you consider more risky, boarding or alighting the bus?  What challenges do you see in the way this bus stop operates?  What accommodations would you like implemented to reduce the risk of bus use at those bus stops?   If you are interested in sharing your feedback, or have any questions, please email: Eleni Christofa at echristofa at engin.umass.edu   Please specify if you need any accommodations to participate in the focus group and the day you are available - either June 20, 21, or 22.   The research team also welcomes your comments in advance about why this topic is important to you.   Please respond by Thursday, June 15 to reserve your spot. Massachusetts Commission for the Blind Website ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ Massachusetts Commission for the Blind | 600 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111 Unsubscribe massachusetts-nfb at nfbnet.org Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by mcbinfo at mass.gov
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