CITILINK AND TURNSTONE BREAK GROUND ON ACCESSIBLE BUS STOP SHELTER
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (May 21, 2024)– On Tuesday, May 21, Citilink and Turnstone Center formally announced the construction of a new, fully accessible bus stop and shelter at Turnstone’s front entrance on North Clinton Street. The ceremonial groundbreaking celebrated the project that had been years in the making, made possible now thanks to support from the AWS Foundation and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, as approved by Fort Wayne City Council.
This project demonstrates the community’s dedication to ensuring equitable access for all residents. The new bus stop will help people with disabilities travel around the city more easily, become more independent, and access critical services at Turnstone and nearby.
Mike Mushett, CEO of Turnstone, said, “The new bus stop at Turnstone is more than just a structure; it represents a significant step forward in our city, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities for independence and community participation as everyone else. We are grateful to our partners at Citilink, AWS Foundation, and the Fort Wayne City Council for their commitment to addressing this critical need and making this vision a reality.”
This project signifies a significant investment in enhancing our community's inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. The addition of the new bus stop will enhance transportation for individuals with disabilities by providing safer access to the workplace, services, and activities in the surrounding area. Providing a clearly designated and accessible point for boarding and disembarking the Citilink vehicles will also improve safety for all riders.
“This bus stop shelter is a pilot designed utilizing input from a wide variety of people with disabilities, Patti Hays, CEO of the AWS Foundation, shared. “Whether it is protection from the weather, visual and audible signals for approaching buses, safe seating options, or limited sensory stimulation, this will be a model for the future. Problems with transportation access contribute to a lack of social connections for the disabled. AWS Foundation’s Grant anticipates that these accessible and sensory-friendly bus huts will aid in providing access to Citilink services and set a new standard.”
John Metzinger, General Manager of Citilink, added, “Citilink is proud to partner with Turnstone on this vital project. Providing accessible transportation is a critical component of our mission to serve all residents of Fort Wayne. This new bus stop will not only improve mobility for individuals with disabilities but also enhance safety and community integration. It's a win-win for everyone involved.”