Fairness & Accessibility

Fairness and accessibility are key considerations in the transportation planning process. The TPB Vision states that “The Washington metropolitan region’s transportation system will provide reasonable access at reasonable cost to everyone in the region”. In addition, one of the three priorities in the TPB’s  Regional Transportation Priorities Plan is “Strengthen Public Confidence and Ensure Fairness” by pursuing greater accountability, efficiency, and accessibility for all people, with particular attention to accessibility for persons with disabilities, low incomes, and limited English proficiency. 

The TPB’s Participation Plan lays out how traditionally-disadvantaged populations are included in the planning process; such as through the Access for All Advisory Committee which is made up of community leaders from around the region and advises the TPB on issues and services  that are important to low-income communities, minority communities, people with limited English skills, individuals with disabilities, and older adults.

It has been the long-standing policy of both COG and the TPB to actively ensure nondiscrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. COG has a Title VI Plan, which includes the Accommodations Policy to ensure access to COG and TPB meetings, events, and activities for people with disabilities and those with limited English skills.

The TPB’s Human Service Transportation Coordination work includes the involvement of people with disabilities and older adults and identifies unmet transportation needs in its Coordinated Human Service Transportation Plan.