Board Chair Resigns From New Orleans RTA

Board Chair Resigns From New Orleans RTA. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) of New Orleans recently announced the resignation of Board Chair Mark Raymond, a dedicated advocate for the disabled community and a driving force behind significant improvements in the city’s public transportation system. Raymond’s departure marks the end of an impactful tenure that began in 2022 when he succeeded former chair Flozell Daniels.

Raymond Contributions And Advocacy

Mark Raymond joined the RTA Board of Commissioners with a mission to create a more inclusive and accessible transit system for all residents of New Orleans. His personal experience as a disability advocate, coupled with his use of a motorized wheelchair, provided him with a unique perspective that fueled his efforts to improve accessibility within the city’s public transportation infrastructure.

Raymond is also the founder of the Split-Second Foundation, an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities. Through this foundation, Raymond has worked tirelessly to promote inclusion and ensure that people with disabilities have the resources and support they need to lead independent lives.

A Landmark Achievement: Accessible Streetcar Stops

One of Raymond’s most notable achievements during his tenure was the introduction of a plan to make New Orleans’ iconic streetcar stops more wheelchair accessible. This initiative, launched in May in collaboration with other City of New Orleans officials, aimed to address the long-standing issue of accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

The plan garnered significant support, resulting in a $5.5 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP). These funds were allocated specifically to enhance accessibility on the St. Charles streetcar line, one of the most historic and heavily used transit routes in the city. Raymond’s persistent advocacy played a crucial role in securing this funding and advancing the project.

Raymond Legacy And The Future Of Accessibility

In addition to his work on the streetcar accessibility project, Raymond was an invaluable thought partner on the RTA’s recently launched Accessibility Study. This comprehensive study aims to identify further opportunities for improving accessibility across the entire transit system, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their physical abilities, can navigate the city with ease.

The RTA Board of Commissioners expressed their deep gratitude for Raymond’s contributions, stating, “The Regional Transit Authority is appreciative of the service of our Board Chair. Mark has been a dedicated advocate for those who are differently abled and has been instrumental in raising the profile of services offered due to his shared experience as a member of the disabled community… We thank Mark for his contributions, insight, support, and experience during his tenure and we wish him the very best on his future endeavors.”

Conclusion

Mark Raymond’s resignation from the New Orleans RTA Board of Commissioners marks the end of a significant chapter in the city’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible public transportation system. His advocacy and leadership have left a lasting impact, setting the stage for continued progress in the years to come. As the RTA moves forward, Raymond’s legacy will serve as a guiding force in the ongoing pursuit of accessibility and equity for all residents of New Orleans.