157. Partnerships Bring AV Accessibility to Rural Areas

Born out of call to “accessibility for all”, the goMARTI initiative in Grand Rapids, MN, provides safe, wheelchair accessible mobility for residents, while also collecting valuable data to inform AV operation in rural, winter conditions. Covering nearly 17 square miles and including approximately 70 pickup and drop off points, goMARTI also offers features such as audio cues for passengers who are visually impaired. . As the first ADA-compliant autonomous shuttle service, goMARTI is a testament to the ability of community members, businesses, government, and technology working together to develop an accessible transportation solution for those in need. .  To learn how this inspiring initiative became reality, we sat down with Myrna Peterson, Founder & Co-Chair of MobilityMania, and Tammy Meehan Russell, President & Chief Catalyst, The PLUM Catalyst. It’s a powerful story that underscores the importance of community and technology coming together to improve quality of life.   . We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to [email protected]. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.  . Follow SAE on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Follow host Grayson Brulte on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.