Indianapolis-based IndyGo is revising its Mobility Advisory Committee (MAC) in order to enable the group to better represent the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the IPTC service area and to advocate for the transportation needs of those individuals as well as all Indianapolis residents and visitors. Bylaws for the new committee were approved at the last IPTC board meeting on January 28.

The MAC advises IPTC on the provision of public transportation services for individuals with disabilities and provides education to the general public about these transportation needs. Meetings will provide a forum in which consumers, employers, organizations and elected representatives can raise concerns, ideas and propose solutions for improving transportation service for Indianapolis and mobility options to individuals with disabilities.

This IndyGo committee has existed since before the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, and the group’s structure was due for adjustments. The new bylaws provide structure for committee membership along with guidance concerning representation for the various and multiple needs of the disabled community. The restructured committee will offer a diverse representation of individuals with disabilities and groups who serve them in order to advise IndyGo on development of service offerings that meet the transportation needs of this population.

The recently approved bylaws allow for a Mobility Advisory Committee that consists of nine members: four to represent individuals who use and are familiar with IPTC Open Door Service; three to represent agencies, businesses or not-for-profit entities that provide services to individuals with disabilities; and two to represent employers who have demonstrated a commitment to hiring and accommodating individuals with disabilities.

Interviews for placement on the committee are expected to begin March 8. Selected candidates will be presented to the IndyGo Service Committee approval on March 23.