Boston Disability Advisory Board Backs Court Reporting, Accessible Trails Bills

BOSTON -- August 6, 2025, Boston's Disability Commission Advisory Board voted to support two accessibility-related bills and heard a sweeping MBTA update at its August 6 meeting. MBTA System General Manager for Systemwide Accessibility Laura Brailsford told the board that 83 percent of T stations are currently accessible and that figure is projected to reach 93 percent by 2030, with Green Line C Branch construction starting as early as October and Symphony Station redevelopment moving toward groundbreaking. Brailsford also announced $15 million in Fair Share Act funding for bus stop shelters and accessibility upgrades at roughly 100 stops, as well as newly approved camera-based enforcement of illegal bus stop parking. The board voted 5-0 with two abstentions to write a letter supporting higher reimbursement rates for court reporters under H1649 and urging the legislature to retain a "certified" credential requirement, and voted unanimously to again support the Accessible Trails for All bill (H915). Board member Carl Richardson reported that he has retained attorney Christine Griffin and is working with State Senator Joan Lovely on legislation to strengthen enforcement of service animal access rights after six recent denials on ride-share trips connected to the MBTA's The Ride program.