New York City’s public transit system is one of the most impressive in the world, moving millions of people every day. It’s far less impressive, however, for the nearly one million New Yorkers with disabilities — and visitors with disabilities — who have long been denied equal access to it, and thus denied equal access to education, employment, healthcare, cultural institutions, visiting with friends and family — in short, all the city has to offer.

That’s why so many disability justice advocates have fought for the city’s congestion relief program, even as it stood against tough odds and public disapproval for years before finally becoming a reality. With the potential to reduce dangerous car traffic, speed up our paratransit and bus systems, improve air quality, and fund critical investments in long-overdue accessibility improvements, the program is a clear solution to various of our transportation system’s historic shortcomings.

Now, nearly a year after its implementation, the results are even clearer: NYC is becoming a safer and more accessible place for people with disabilities. And that’s good news for all New Yorkers.

Looking at the bigger picture, the impact of congestion pricing for everyone is unmistakable.

© NY Daily News