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Help identify accessibility barriers in your community
Are you aware of inaccessible areas in your community — for example, places that are missing curb ramps, have inadequate sidewalks, or lack accessible transit?
You can help improve our region by identifying accessibility barriers on a new online map.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will use the data to inform a vulnerable road user assessment, which is required by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. To learn more about the assessment and how you can provide input, watch this webinar.
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Project explores the relationship between accessibility and economic development
University of Illinois Chicago graduate students presented their capstone project on the benefits of accessible infrastructure at the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) offices last week.
Their work explores the relationship between accessible infrastructure and economic factors, and proposes quantifying the costs and benefits of ADA compliance to encourage communities to adopt and implement ADA transition plans. The students’ work revealed many opportunities for further research.
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CMAP completes first round of free ADA trainings for local communities
Thank you to the community representatives who attended CMAP’s free ADA compliance trainings last month and took this important step toward creating accessible, inclusive, and thriving communities.
CMAP's ADA trainings cover local communities’ legal obligations regarding ADA compliance, including Title II requirements, how to complete a self-evaluation, the role of an ADA coordinator, and how to develop a transition plan.
We have concluded the first round of these trainings, but we expect to launch more trainings in early fall — stay tuned! If you were unable to attend or want to find more information, we will be posting video recordings, presentations, and other resources on the training webpage.
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A year of significant progress: CMAP's annual report highlights work to advance accessibility
Northeastern Illinois had an exceptional year. From building consensus on priority projects to awarding technical assistance grants, CMAP supported transportation improvements that will make northeastern Illinois a stronger, more resilient place to live.
CMAP’s 2022 Annual Report looks back at the significant progress we made and highlights our work toward improving the region’s transportation system, addressing climate resiliency, and ensuring we have a thriving economy –– while embracing and applying an equity lens.
The report also highlights our priority area of ADA planning and our new ADA and accessibility training program, which works directly with communities to advance compliance.
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Regional Excellence Award recipient provides inclusive, accessible living community
CMAP’s Regional Excellence Awards celebrate projects and leaders who exemplify the ingenuity and dedication that makes northeastern Illinois a better place to live, enjoy, work, and do business. This year’s recipients include the Bloomhaven development in Aurora, which turned a blighted health facility into a mixed-use development delivering essential services and amenities to residents of different ages and abilities.
Visit the 2023 awards webpage to meet all seven winners and watch videos about their achievements.
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Global Accessibility Awareness Day is May 18
Join our partners in the region and beyond in spreading awareness of digital accessibility! Visit the Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) webpage to check out ways to participate, find in-person and virtual events, and access resources on accessibility features and assistive technology.
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Funding available to expand safe, equitable access to public transportation
IDOT is accepting applications for a competitive grant program that aims to expand safe, equitable access to public transportation. Grants will fund studies on planning and preliminary engineering issues regarding public multimodal and non-motorized transportation.
Previously chosen projects include transit equity, transit system expansion, travel behavior of people with disabilities, and transportation for veterans.
Governmental entities — such as counties, metropolitan planning agencies, municipalities, state agencies, public transit agencies, and state universities — are urged to apply.
The program's total funding is $2.5 million. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 24.
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