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Does improving accessibility boost local economies?
A cracked sidewalk. A train platform without an elevator. A busy intersection with no audio signals. For many people in our region, these are more than just inconveniences. They mean being unable to make it to a job or school, canceling a trip to the local commercial district, or delaying a visit to the doctor.
Physical barriers prevent people with disabilities from moving around the region — and that can have a significant influence on our economy.
Accessible infrastructure creates economic opportunity, by connecting people to jobs, education, and services. But to truly understand the financial benefits of accessibility, we need more research.
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Celebrating International Day of People with Disabilities
Tomorrow, December 3, is International Day of People with Disabilities. Started in 1992 by the United Nations, the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities.
Learn more about events, celebrations, and resources.
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Save the date for free trainings in January, spring 2023
CMAP has launched a new free training program that covers the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and communities’ obligations under the act. The program began with a half-day training pilot last month.
Save the date for more in-person training sessions in the new year:
ADA and Title II
When: Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: Frankfort, Illinois
Registration opens soon!
ADA coordinator training
When: Wednesday, March 1, 2023
Where: Calumet Park, Illinois
ADA self-evaluation and design standards
When: Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Where: Naperville, Illinois
ADA transition plans
When: Wednesday, April 19, 2023
Where: Aurora, Illinois
The trainings are designed for municipal staff, public works staff, ADA coordinators, elected and appointed officials, community leaders, and anyone interested in learning about how to make their communities more accessible.
Participants are welcome to attend one or all the training workshops. If you have any questions, please contact accessibility@cmap.illinois.gov.
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 A new accessible park opened on Chicago's Far North Side in November. Photo credit: JCC Chicago
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Celebrating accessibility improvements around the region
Communities across the region are taking steps to improve accessibility for their residents and visitors with disabilities. Recent news includes:
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Accessible park opens in Chicago: A new outdoor park in West Ridge provides an inclusive place for people with disabilities to play and relax. The park at Bernard Horwich Jewish Community Centers features two fully accessible playgrounds, sports and recreation fields, an outdoor pavilion, and more.
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Ride Lake County celebrates six months: The countywide paratransit service — which provides people with disabilities and residents over 60 years old with transportation to work, medical appointments, and more — reported more than 12,000 rides since launching in May.
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Construction prep begins on Des Plaines River Trail: The project, funded through CMAP programs, will improve accessibility and safety on the recreational path.
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Homewood Station rehab moves forward: Metra awarded a $14.5 million contract to renovate the Homewood Station along the Metra Electric Line, including the construction of an ADA-accessible headhouse.
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Street upgrades planned in South Chicago: Two business corridors in South Chicago will receive accessible ramps and crosswalks, curb extensions to shorten street crossings, and more upgrades to improve accessibility and bolster economic development.
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