The City of SJ Public Transportation System
Our sincere thanks to the City of Saint John for their support to make our project – Opening Doors: Improving Transportation Access in Saint John – a reality. Inclusion NB received a community grant to help address the significant barriers people with intellectual or developmental disabilities face in navigating public transit. This project will see Saint Johners receive the information they need to better understand how to navigate the city’s buses, including learning more about schedules, routes, bus etiquette and more.
Transportation plays a vital role in ensuring individuals with disabilities to lead more independent lives, can access education and employment opportunities, and participate fully in their communities.
A message from Patty, a Self-Advocate
My name is Patty, and I want to share with you how public transportation helps me maintain my independence and stay connected to the community.
Public transportation is more than just a means to an end for me. It is my lifeline. Public transportation allows me to access essential services, like groceries and doctors’ appointments. It also helps me attend social gatherings and participate in community events. It gives me the freedom to explore new places and meet new people, enriching my life in ways that would not be possible otherwise.
However, there are challenges with using public transportation as someone who is visually impaired. Thankfully I’ve found the staff for Saint John City Public transit to be extremely inclusive and supportive. I recently was travelling to the mall, and asked the driver to let me know when we were at my spot. He didn’t hesitate for a moment to support me with that. This extra support means not only I access public transportation, but I can do so comfortably and confidently.
In conclusion, public transportation is not just about getting from point A to point B. For individuals like me, it represents independence, empowerment, and connection. It is a bridge to the world, enabling us to be active, engaged members of our community. Thank you to the city of Saint John, for giving more individuals the opportunity for the same independence and empowerment.
Patty O’Donnell
Self Advocate & Life Member
