Disability rights group targets transportation

A state-wide disability rights organization will host a meeting today to discuss public transportation options at Lake Tahoe and how they can be improved.

Protection and Advocacy Inc. has worked with local groups and concerned individuals in the area since August to address the basin's transportation issues.

This meeting will see the formation of five committees to take a closer look at the matter. Door-to-door service, fixed route service, off the hill transportation, working with outside transportation agencies, and other issues will each be addressed.

Lori Shepherd, collaborative projects director for Protection and Advocacy Inc. noted that bus stops in need of safety measures and the availability of transportation to out-of-area medical visits are two of the issues that will be covered at Wednesday's meeting. Advocacy skills will also receive attention.

"These issues not only impact people with disabilities, but also the general public and tourists who have difficulty accessing or utilizing the existing transportation services," according to a press statement.

The public is invited to attend Wednesday's meeting and lunch will be served.