Students And Staff Partner With TriMet: The "I Ride With Rosa" Initiative

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Post on Feb 06, 2025

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Students and Staff Partner with TriMet: The "I Ride with Rosa" Initiative Takes Shape

Portland, OR – October 26, 2023 – A groundbreaking partnership between Portland Public Schools (PPS), TriMet, and community organizations is transforming how students and staff navigate the city. The "I Ride with Rosa" initiative, named in honor of Rosa Parks and her courageous stand for civil rights, aims to increase transit ridership among students and staff while promoting safe and equitable access to public transportation. This innovative program goes beyond simply encouraging bus use; it’s about fostering a sense of community and empowering individuals through accessible and reliable public transit.

This ambitious project addresses several key challenges faced by PPS. Many students and staff rely on public transportation, yet navigating the system can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with TriMet's routes and schedules. Concerns about safety and accessibility have also historically hindered wider adoption of public transit. "I Ride with Rosa" directly tackles these concerns by providing comprehensive training, resources, and support.

<h3>Empowering Students and Staff Through Transit Education</h3>

The core of the "I Ride with Rosa" initiative lies in its educational component. PPS staff are receiving specialized training on TriMet's services, including route planning, fare payment, and safety protocols. Students are also engaged through interactive workshops and hands-on activities designed to demystify public transportation and build confidence in using it independently. This educational approach is crucial for fostering a positive and empowering experience with public transit.

• Hands-on Training: Workshops include practical exercises like planning routes using TriMet's online tools and apps.
• Safety First: Sessions cover safety awareness, including how to navigate crowded buses and report incidents.
• Community Building: The program fosters a sense of community by connecting students and staff with each other and TriMet representatives.

<h3>Addressing Accessibility and Equity</h3>

Accessibility is paramount to the "I Ride with Rosa" initiative. The program actively works to ensure that all students and staff, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, have equal access to public transportation. This includes providing support for students with disabilities and collaborating with community organizations to address transportation barriers faced by marginalized communities.

• Accessibility Features: The program highlights TriMet's accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and accessible bus stops.
• Multilingual Support: Materials and training are available in multiple languages to cater to the diverse PPS community.
• Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local organizations ensures that the program reaches students and families who may need additional support.

<h3>Long-Term Impact and Sustainability</h3>

The "I Ride with Rosa" initiative is designed for long-term sustainability. By integrating transit education into the school curriculum and providing ongoing support, the program aims to create lasting changes in transportation habits. This commitment to long-term impact is essential for achieving the program's goals of increasing transit ridership and promoting equitable access to public transportation. The program also aims to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions, aligning with Portland's sustainability goals.

<h3>Looking Ahead: A Model for Other Cities</h3>

The success of "I Ride with Rosa" has the potential to serve as a model for other school districts and transit agencies across the country. By demonstrating the effectiveness of a comprehensive, community-based approach to transit education and accessibility, the program could inspire similar initiatives nationwide. This collaborative effort highlights the power of partnerships in addressing critical transportation challenges and promoting a more sustainable and equitable future.

Learn more about the "I Ride with Rosa" initiative by visiting [link to relevant PPS or TriMet website, if available]. You can also follow the progress of the program on social media using the hashtag #IRideWithRosa.