As part of its system‑wide commitment to providing barrier‑free, equitable mobility, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) selected STV to lead the development of its Plan for Accessible Transit Infrastructure (PATI). The initiative aimed to strengthen accessibility across the MBTA’s extensive bus and rail network, ensuring that passengers with disabilities have safe, convenient and reliable access to transit services throughout the region. Leveraging advanced data‑collection tools and custom database software, STV conducted one of the most comprehensive accessibility assessments ever undertaken by the agency.
What challenges did STV address?
The MBTA needed a complete, accurate and system‑wide inventory of accessibility barriers across more than 7,600 bus stops and rail line segments – work that had to be completed without disrupting daily operations. The challenge involved capturing diverse physical conditions and identifying gaps that impeded safe and seamless mobility for riders with disabilities across eastern Massachusetts.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV deployed innovative digital surveying methods to collect conditions data efficiently across the entire system within just four months. The team produced detailed station and stop‑level assessments, synthesized findings into a unified database and developed prioritized recommendations in a comprehensive final report. This data‑driven blueprint enables the MBTA to plan targeted improvements and make strategic, long‑term investments in accessibility.
How does this project benefit the region?
The PATI initiative supports a more inclusive and equitable transportation network by helping the MBTA identify, prioritize, and implement high‑impact accessibility improvements. The resulting plan enhances mobility, safety and independence for thousands of riders with disabilities and strengthens transit access across eastern Massachusetts.
Key stats and accolades
- 7,600 bus stops and rail segments surveyed
- 4 months of system‑wide data collection
- Comprehensive digital assessments and database tools
- Prioritized recommendations for long‑term accessibility planning
