NIDILRR Seeking Public Comment on Proposed Transportation Priority

Transportation is central to living independently, but nearly a third of people with disabilities do not have adequate access.

Current research has shown potential benefits of robotics and automation for independent travel and mobility for people with disabilities. Fully autonomous vehicles are expected to dramatically improve mobility and research and development of this exciting idea is underway in both the public and private sector. Even less dramatic technology is expected to have a tremendous impact.

NIDILRR proposes to fund research to advance the development of robotics and automation that enhance accessible transportation for travelers with disabilities by:

a) Meeting the diverse needs of travelers with mobility, vision, hearing and cognitive disabilities; and

b) Providing travelers with the ability to plan and execute on-demand trips at any time and from any location.

The first project to be funded under this priority is entitled: Robotics and Automation Technology Application Development Supporting Independent Mobility.

We invite you to submit comments regarding this proposed priority. Comments must be sent to Marlene Spencer, atMarlene.Spencer@acl.hhs.gov and include the phrase “Proposed Priority for Transportation DRRP” in the subject line of your electronic message. Comments must be submitted on or before May 20, 2016.

Read the full priority and learn more about learn more about National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) here.