DDC to launch ‘Dial-a-Ride’ project

The Governor’s Developmental Disabilities Council is pursuing a tie-up with the Pacific Development Corporation in a project called “Dial-A-Ride” in efforts to provide persons with disabilities more access to transportation services.

DDC Executive Director Thomas J. Camacho disclosed that the council is currently in the process of soliciting a proposal for the purchase of one accessible van to be utilized in the project.

According to Mr. Camacho, the Disabilities Council and PDI have already initiated talks that upon the van’s purchase, the vehicle will be turned over to the private transportation agency to operate its services.

“Dial-A-Ride” services is projected to be accessible to individuals with disabilities on an on call basis.

But prior to the turnover, the council said it has yet to release a study that will assess the transportation needs of people with disabilities.

“The study will include assessment results and the operation guide of the Dial-A-Ride Transportation Services for people with disabilities,” said Mr. Camacho.

GDDC has been granted authority by the Northern Marianas Housing Corporation, as administrator of the Federal Community Block Grant, to procure a $50,000 state-of-the art accessible vehicle envisioned to alleviate barriers that hamper the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in regular community events.

Transportation, Mr. Camacho cited, is a major barrier both on the local and national scene, preventing people with disabilities from taking part in everyday community activities.

Meanwhile, another barrier toward the full inclusion of persons with disabilities, according to a GDDC study entitled “Existing Policy Barriers to Full Inclusion: Results of an Opinion Research Questionnaire,” listed existing weak policies that zero in on funding deficiency.

The study that contained data gathered from government and community organization raised funding woes as the most apparent barrier, among several hindrances.

The DD council chief earlier expressed support to the respondents’ proposal to create more policies that would ensure more local funding is in place.

Another popular recommendation has called for each CNMI organization to establish a written policy on developmental disabilities.

Mr. Camacho has also proposed that the CNMI government create laws that would mandate a fixed percentage funding to benefit all individuals with disabilities. (MM)