WASHINGTON — Amtrak is considering the use of semi-permanent coupling in its next generation of long-distance trainsets, and as a result will seek regulatory approval to address accessibility requirements through accommodations throughout those trainsets, rather than in individual cars.
That proposal is included in a website the passenger operator has launched as it seeks public comment on its accessibility plans for the new long-distance equipment, which will also be addressed in an Aug. 30 hearing in Washington. Participation in that hearing can be either in person or virtual.
The website, available here, explains that some of Amtrak’s proposals would require the Federal Railroad Administration to approve what is called “equivalent facilitation,” in which alternate design standards are determined to provide equal or better accessibility.
The equivalent facilitation would seek to address provisions such as those that require a specific number of accessible spaces in each individual passenger coach and food service car; accessible restrooms on the lower level of bilevel lounge cars, regardless of accessibility on the upper level or in adjacent cars; and accessible accommodations in each sleeping car, regardless of the number of accessible accommodations elsewhere on the train.
Instead, Amtrak would offer an “accessible core trainset offering enhanced mobility between cars and access to train amenities.” It says this would provide “equal or better accessibility and usability of its trainsets.”
The Aug. 30 hearing will be held at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, 400 New Jersey Avenue NW in Washington, D.C. It is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT. In person and virtual registration for the event are both available at the website referenced above.
Public comment is also being accepted on that website, beginning today (Aug. 7) through Tuesday, Sept. 5.
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