Disability Day on the Hill: A letter to the Senators

Dear Senator:

                I represent Williamson County Schools and District 23.  I am excited to be a part of Disability Day on the Hill.  I come from Independence High School to talk to you about the need for increased availability of affordable and reliable public transportation in our community.

Currently Williamson County does provide the Franklin Trolley/TODD through Franklin Transit Authority but this system is only available in the Franklin city limits.  My classmates and I live in the cities of Thompson Station and Spring Hill and no such transportation is available to us.

                The school district has provided me on the job training for the past 3-4 years.  As a student I am able to access transportation to and from my job sites on a daily basis through the school system.  When I reach the age of 22 I will no longer have access to these resources.  I am concerned that whatever job I have at that time, I will no longer be able to access, because I am not able to drive. 

                I am excited to hear that the state is beginning to plan an increase public transportation and I would like to ask you to support the following:

·         Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as proposed by AMP

·         2035 Regional Transportation Plan

Williamson County will increase in population by 144% between 2006 and 2035. Also Williamson County Schools have recognized a significant and ongoing increase in students with special needs.  The students entering school in 2014 will have graduated and be vital community members by the time the 2035 Regional Transportation Plan is completed.  The need for public transportation to allow me and my peers to go to work and engage in my community is greatly needed 

Please remain mindful of the ever growing need for transportation among adults with disabilities and join with me in supporting public transportation initiatives.