Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI): User Needs Assessment: Stakeholder Engagement Report

Pierce, Ben; Plapper, Eric; Rizek, Jodi · 2016 · ROSA P / United States. Department of Transportation. Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office

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Summary

The Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI) User Needs Assessment: Stakeholder Engagement Report addresses the critical need to identify specific mobility barriers and user requirements for travelers with disabilities, Veterans with disabilities, and older adults. Motivated by the ATTRI mission to transform mobility through reliable, safe, and independent travel planning, this study serves as the foundational phase of a six-year U.S. Department of Transportation initiative. The research aims to validate ATTRI’s strategic goals by understanding the distinct needs of these populations and determining how emerging technologies can address current gaps in accessible transportation. To gather comprehensive data, the researchers employed a multi-method stakeholder engagement strategy. This included a systematic literature review to analyze historical perspectives and existing research on mobility barriers. This was followed by a series of webinars involving people with disabilities, caregivers, and advocates to identify specific transportation needs and discuss potential technological solutions. Additionally, an in-person workshop was conducted to validate webinar findings and explore how emerging technologies could address identified barriers. Supplementary feedback was collected through “listening sessions” at three professional conferences. The engagement focused on five primary technology areas: Wayfinding and Navigation, Assistive Technologies, Automation and Robotics, Data Integration, and Enhanced Human Services Transportation. The findings reveal that while current best practices have improved physical access to facilities, they fail to address most user needs regarding information, options, and assistance. Stakeholders identified four overarching themes: the critical need for accessible pre-trip and real-time information; the desire for diverse travel options, particularly for rural residents; the requirement for real-time assistance during travel; and the need for enhanced access to facilities. A crosswalk analysis assessed the potential of the five technology focus areas to address these needs. Wayfinding and Navigation, Assistive Technologies, and Enhanced Human Services Transportation were rated as having "Strong" potential to provide information and overcome adverse perceptions of travel. Automation and Robotics were identified as having "Strong" potential to provide travel options and address infrastructure inadequacies. Conversely, Data Integration showed "Limited" potential for addressing access and cost barriers but "Strong" potential for providing travel support. The significance of this report lies in its validation of the need for technology insertion to improve mobility for disabled travelers. The study concludes that current transit practices do not adequately address the identified barriers, particularly regarding information availability and travel options. The findings provide a roadmap for the subsequent phases of ATTRI, specifically guiding the innovation and prototyping of technologies in the identified focus areas. By linking specific user needs to technological solutions, the report supports the development of integrated systems that enhance independence, safety, and reliability for travelers with disabilities, ultimately contributing to universal mobility and improved quality of life.

Key finding

Wayfinding and navigation technologies, assistive technologies, and enhanced human services transportation have strong potential to address critical needs for information and adverse travel perceptions, while automation and robotics show strong potential for providing travel options and improving access.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Provenance

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• physical impairment