Evaluating the Transportation Needs and Accessibility Issues for Adults on the Autism Spectrum in New Jersey

There are numerous Federal and State transportation programs intended to provide accessible and appropriate transportation to those with disabilities, including autism. New Jersey has a variety of state, county, municipal and private transportation services available to the disabled residents. In 2008 New Jersey’s Governor assembled the New Jersey Adults with Autism Task Force to evaluate the needs of and plan for the state’s adult autistic population, including their transportation needs. From December 2008 through May 2009, the Task Force conducted a state-wide convenience survey for a comprehensive understanding of the population’s needs. The survey generated 1,077 responses from individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and/or their caretakers, who responded in regards to their travel demands and transportation accessibility. Transportation was noted as a significant obstacle to participating in work (50.9%) and non-work (48.0%) activities of the surveyed population. The responses indicated that the population was heavily reliant (81.6%) on friends and families to meet their transportation needs. The majority of survey respondents did not have travel training or knowledge about the various transit systems in order to travel independently. The small percentage (11.9%) of survey respondents who did receive travel training were often taught in school or by their families (81.8%). The survey also indicated a limited usage of fixed route, paratransit services and Access Link services (21.7%). The current travel patterns place an undue burden on family and friends, while demonstrating restrictions on the activities of people with autism.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: DVD
  • Features: Figures; Maps; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 24p
  • Monograph Title: TRB 89th Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers DVD

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01156944
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 10-0148
  • Files: TRIS, TRB
  • Created Date: May 24 2010 2:08PM