DMV

Metro is Looking For Members For Advisory Board That Advocates For Customers with Disabilities and Senior Citizens

By MCS Staff

As advocates for customers with disabilities and senior citizens, Metro’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) is looking for new members that will continue to help shape accessibility throughout the Metro system. The design of Metro’s new 8000-series railcars, low-floor buses, and budget, are just some of the significant issues the AAC has a role in.

Per WMATA: Established in 1979, the AAC advises Metro’s Board of Directors on transportation issues that may affect the accessibility of public transportation for persons with disabilities and older adults. The 20-member board consists of members from Maryland, the District, and Virginia and is seeking to fill three vacant positions representing Arlington County, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, City of Alexandria, City of Falls Church, or Fairfax City. Members of the AAC must attend one meeting a month, in addition to a subcommittee meeting. The positions are voluntary and are not paid; however, members provide an important perspective to ensure equity and accessibility for people with disabilities and older adults on Metrobus, Metrorail, and MetroAccess.

To qualify, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

  • At least 65 years old and/or have a disability
  • Live in Arlington County, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, City of Alexandria, City of Falls Church, or Fairfax City
  • Regularly use Metrobus, Metrorail or MetroAccess

Metro employees, contractors, and elected officials are prohibited from serving on the board. 

The AAC has been instrumental to Metro and the Board of Directors on key issues that resulted in design changes and service upgrades. Last year members of the AAC joined Metro in New York City to evaluate a train with an open gangway design for the new 8000-series railcars. The group’s efforts also resulted in improvements to the 7000-series barriers between railcars that alert customers who are blind or low-vision of the space between railcars; and gap reducers which make it easier for wheelchair customers to board the train. 

Candidates will be selected by the Board and should reflect a diverse cross section of people who are older, have a disability, or need assistance to access the system. The AAC meets on the first Monday of every month between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. The board includes six members each from DC, Maryland, and Virginia with two at-large members.

If you’re interested, download the online fillable/printable AAC membership application, or call Systemwide Accessibility, at 202-962-1100 to request an application form. You can fill out the form online, or send completed applications by email to [email protected], or by mail to WMATA Accessibility Advisory Committee at 4100 Garden City Drive, 603-01-C, Hyattsville, MD 20785. 

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, July 19th, 2024. Additional information is also available on Metro’s Accessibility Advisory Committee page. Photo courtesy WMATA