The WI Non-Driver Advisory Council held its first two meetings on June 17 & 18.
Recap provided by WisDOT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaywMtMChjQ&feature=youtu.be
The purpose of this council is to increase coordination within state government for the varying programs that serve those who cannot or choose not to drive. The council’s membership includes state agencies, municipalities, nonprofits and coalitions/alliances who play an active role in transportation issues throughout the state.
The council is co-chaired by Aileen Schweitzer, Administrator of WisDOT’s Office of Budget and Strategic Initiatives, Tami Jackson with the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities and transportation lead for the Survival Coalition of WI Disability Groups and Denise Jess, CEO/Executive Director, Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired. Gregg May, Transportation Policy Analyst at 1000 Friends of Wisconsin has been invited to serve as a member of the Advisory Council.
Day One focused on the experiences of those who cannot or choose not to drive. After opening comments from WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson and the three committee chairs, there was a panel, focused on non-driver experiences with perspectives from around the state. Survey results about the needs of non-drivers were also shared.
Day Two honed in on the different agency programs. The focus was to generate recommendations that keep the non-driver at the center of our conversations moving forward.