Do Transit Agencies Truly Understand Accessibility Data?

Learn the difference between compliance reporting and the accessibility information riders with disabilities actually need to navigate your system
Image of a person in a wheelchair at an out-of-service elevator with an app saying the trip is accessible

Your riders open the app, see “Station: Accessible” with a green checkmark, then arrive to find broken elevators and no alternative route information

Sound familiar? You're not alone. Every day, transit accessibility professionals watch riders get stranded because our data tells them a station is "accessible" but doesn't actually help them navigate it.

The problem isn't just broken elevators—it's the gap between compliance reporting and the detailed journey information riders with disabilities actually need to travel confidently.

What is Transit Accessibility Data?

The complete guide to GTFS Pathways and why most agencies struggle with implementation (plus what success actually looks like).

cover image of GTFS pathways strategic planning bookGet the guide
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GTFS pathways are the secret to making trip navigation truly step-by-step. They give riders step-by-step instructions for how to get through complex stations, from the entrance to the platform: guiding low-vision users through unfamiliar spaces, helping people with limited mobility plan step-free trips, and making sure everyone can get to their platform without the guesswork.

We built pathways into Transit because we know that accurate pathways mean better accessibility and a smoother, calmer ride for everyone. As one of the biggest GTFS data consumers, Transit is working side by side with agencies, advocates, and accessibility experts to make trips accessible every step of the way.

Headshot of David Block-Schachter

David Block-Schachter

Chief Business Officer — Transit

Transit mobile app screenshot

TransitOPS bridges this gap

We help transit accessibility professionals transform compliance data into the journey-focused information that riders actually need – without requiring you to become a GTFS expert.

Book a 30-minute consultation with a GTFS Pathways specialist to discuss your specific situation.
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an accessible trip plan

Map real journeys, not just features

Show riders exactly how to get from street to platform, including which entrance to use, where the elevator is, and how long the accessible route takes.

an accessibility service alert

Connect with real-time alerts

When elevators break, automatically provide alternative accessible routes instead of leaving riders to figure it out themselves

an accessibility metrics dashboard

Measure what matters

Create visible improvements that reduce customer service calls, build rider trust, and demonstrate clear ROI to agency leadership.

We guide accessibility professionals through proven GTFS Pathways implementation that delivers visible wins without requiring technical challenge

1. Strategic Assessment

Audit your current accessibility data, map key stakeholders, and build the business case that resonates with leadership, IT, and operations.

2. Pilot Design

Select high-impact locations and create implementation plans that deliver quick wins while building internal credibility and support.

3. Technical Implementation

Work with your IT team and vendors to implement accurate GTFS Pathways data that integrates seamlessly with existing systems.

4. Rider Testing

Validate improvements across trip planning apps, gather rider feedback, and measure impact on satisfaction and service metrics.

5. Scale & Leadership

Expand system-wide, build maintenance processes, and position yourself as a strategic innovator in transit accessibility.

Start Your Implementation