LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky’s campus is continuing work on making transportation accessible for disabled persons across the commonwealth. The goal of the Transportation Initiative is to provide information and education about transportation options while working to increase the capacity.
The Transportation Initiative is made possible by the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. Maria Kemplin, project director of the Transportation Initiative at UK Human Development Institute, said there are several transportation services around our state, but few of them list multiple resources through one agency.
That’s why her team created one website with support service videos from all over the state.
“Transportation always shows up on needs assessments as a significant issue for many Kentuckians,” Kemplin said. “Transportation issues can prevent someone from living independently in the community, from receiving medical care, receiving an education or career training. From finding or holding a job, volunteering or visiting with family.”
There are a handful of deadlines coming up. First, the deadline for HART Supported Living applications is April 1. The grant is available for things like modifications to vehicles that make them accessible to a disabled person, service animals or care staff.
Other programs like the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (K-TAP) are open to all Kentuckians who fall under a certain income level. Families can get help of up to $200 a month in transportation support payments.
People can also register for $1,500 once per year for emergencies like auto repairs, vehicle registration, taxes and insurance. This program operates on a rolling basis.
The Transportation Initiative website also connects people to ADA Paratransit Services and non-emergency medical transportation.