Accessible public transportation is crucial, yet many passengers encounter challenges when using ramps for buses or navigating train-to-platform gaps. This study assesses how effectively these ramps support boarding and evaluates gap features—such as dimensions and visibility—to ensure safety and usability. We aim to develop evidence-based guidelines that enhance transit systems and support future standards for inclusive mobility.
Why should you participate?
Accessible public transportation helps create communities where everyone can get around easily, including people with disabilities. While there are already some standards in place to make buses and transit systems more accessible, there are still important problems—like how ramps connect to platforms and how big the gaps are between the vehicle and the curb. Right now, many of the solutions used are based on guesswork or experience, not solid research. By taking part in this project, you’ll help us learn what really works and what doesn’t. Your input can lead to better, safer, and more reliable ramps and boarding systems for everyone. The results of this research will help set stronger guidelines for future transit designs, making public transportation more inclusive and easier to use for people of all abilities.
You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:
- Have experienced accessibility issues on transit and or rail in the use of ramps and navigating gaps in Canada ( e.g., stroller, vision impairment, mobility issues, utilize a dog).
- Are a parents/care aides of those who have experienced these accessibility issues.
- Are living in Canada.
- Are 16 years of age or older (to provide feedback that reflects a level of maturity required to answer questions).
- Are capable of connecting remotely by computer (if participating in a remote session).
- Are able to communicate effectively in English.
You may not be eligible to participate if you:
This study does not have specific exclusion criteria and we welcome participants of all backgrounds and abilities. However, to make sure we include a wide range of experiences, we may need to limit participation if a volunteer’s situation is already well-represented and other experiences are not yet included, For example, if only wheelchairs are represented, this may lead to inadequate consideration of other accessibility needs, such as those of individuals who use walkers, parents with strollers, or people with sensory limitations.
Time commitment: This study requires a 180-minute in-person focus group or a 60-minute online interview.
Compensation for participation: This study offers a $75 honourarium for the interview or a $150 honourarium for the focus group.
For more information or to sign up to participate, please contact study coordinator Murveena Jeawon by email or at (604) 451-6934.
