Citation

Matherly D, Mobley J. Transp. Res. Rec. 2011; 2234: 62-70.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.3141/2234-07

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Communication with vulnerable populations about transportation in emergency situations contains serious gaps. Earlier case studies notwithstanding, the lessons of Hurricane Katrina provided a major impetus to legislation, studies, and action. Much legislation advises that community-based organizations should be worked with to bridge the gaps, but little guidance is given. TCRP funded an effort to create such a tool kit for transportation and emergency managers. The study culminates in spring 2011; this paper presents interim findings from a literature review and interviews. Transportation agencies are not in charge of communication with vulnerable populations during emergencies; emergency management agencies are in charge, but they may delegate such communication. However, transportation, public health, public information, and other agencies have significant community outreach capabilities inherent in their nonemergency roles. The most effective ways for transportation and emergency managers to communicate with vulnerable populations about their transportation options before, during, and after an emergency are learning how to identify and tap into existing resources and the networks of public, private, and nonprofit agencies that work with vulnerable populations and learn how to establish and maintain relationships with those entities. Inclusive planning helps everyone. Creation of accommodations for people who cannot hear or understand the primary language also helps tourists and residents who may lose their hearing aids, their hearing, or their composure in an emergency. Likewise, inclusively planning for people with personal mobility challenges helps accommodate people with temporary mobility problems, such as recent surgery or injury or loss of their vehicles during the event.