The excerpted article below is from Inclusion Daily Express.
Disabled Riders Protest Proposed Bus-Fare Hike, Service Cuts
(Salt Lake Tribune)
April 15, 2009
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH– [Excerpt] The Utah Transit Authority’s boardroom overflowed with wheelchairs, walkers and assistance dogs Wednesday evening as disabled bus riders bashed a plan to cut paratransit service and raise fares.
Dozens applauded each time a rider took the microphone to register opposition. Many speakers echoed a common theme: More than a ride, UTA’s “flextrans” vans give them life.
“We have a right to an active life,” said Bountiful resident Mickey Adelhardt, who uses a wheelchair. She suggested that instead of reducing the service area or adding $1.50 to the fare, as proposed, the agency crack down on light-rail riders who take advantage of honor-system ticketing.
Some cried during their testimony or asked others to speak for them.
UTA has offered paratransit services at an affordable cost for years, blind Salt Lake City resident Robin Doyle said, and riders have built their lives around them. The agency should trim other expenses, she argued, not services to those who need them most.
Entire article:
Disabled riders protest proposed bus-fare hike, service cuts
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_12151781
Related:
Disabled Utahns Say Paratransit Cuts and Fare Hikes a Bad Plan (KUTV)
http://www.inclusiondaily.com/news/2009/red/0415d.htm
Disabled Utahns fear imminent budget cuts (Salt Lake Tribune)
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_12120916
Planet of the Blind 