The five major elements required to make intercity buses accessible are: (1) vertical access from road level to bus floor level; (2) access to and egress from seat; (3) wheelchair securement and passenger restraint; (4) access to and use of washroom; and (5) communication and access to information. This paper deals with each element, discussing existing solutions, developments in progress, and future considerations. Highlights include the Canada coach lines operation of six accessible Motor Coach Industries (MCI) buses equipped with newly developed integrated lifts on regular routes in the Hamilton-Niagara Corridor, as well as a new 45-foot MCI intercity bus with unique features such as a fully accessible washroom, a folding rear lift, and a new suspension system.
Samenvatting