Community factors associated with the prevalence of pedestrian barrier removal plans in U.S. municipalities

Abstract

Introduction

Safe and accessible pedestrian infrastructure is a necessity for supporting walking and wheeling among people with disabilities. Yet, progress towards improving accessibility is limited, as is the amount of walking and wheeling among people with disabilities. Furthermore, most communities lack a plan for removing pedestrian barriers known as an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan. Limited research has examined what community factors are associated with having a plan.

Methods

Using data from the 2021 Community-Based Policies and Environmental Supports for Healthy Eating and Active Living survey, this study investigates three objectives among a nationally representative sample of local governments: (1) estimate the national prevalence of ADA transition plans, (2) examine the relationship between socio-economic indicators and the odds of having such plans, and 3) explore the relationship between having a similar pedestrian safety focused plan and having an ADA transition plan. We ran descriptive analysis, bivariate, and multivariable statistical tests to examine associations with having a plan.

Results

Only 33.55% of municipalities reported having an ADA Transition Plan. Prevalence was lower in Northeast communities and municipalities with fewer than 2500 residents (non-urban areas). Communities with higher proportions of residents with disabilities had significantly greater odds of being in the process of plan development, but were not associated with having an adopted plan. The presence of pedestrian-oriented policies, such as Vision Zero and Complete Streets, was positively associated with the odds of having a plan. Poverty levels, median household income, and the percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher were not associated with having an adopted plan.

Conclusion

Integrating ADA compliance within a broader, active mobility-focused planning framework could advance progress toward accessible pathways and support increased walking and wheeling among community members with and without disabilities. Smaller communities need additional support for ADA Transition Plan development and implementation.