Lightrail might have small light'fail'

While growing up as a person with a disability in the Washington D.C. area, I used public transportation all of the time. I didn't even get my driver's license until I was 25 and moved to Arizona.

When I heard Phoenix was finally opening the light rail, I was ecstatic. The bus system was frustrating the few times I tried to use it. Many of the bus stops in my neighborhood offered no shade, the summer sun heated metal parts of my wheelchair. Often time the wheelchair lifts were inoperable, leaving me to sit and wait for the next bus.

I hoped for a better experience with the light rail and for the most part I was not disappointed. I arrived at the Tempe station off of University early in the afternoon. I found the ticket machines and ran into my first complication. The machines themselves offer brail tabs for the blind but sitting in my wheelchair, I struggled to see the screen. I boosted myself onto my hands and I was able to purchase my ticket finally. Adding to my frustration, I received all my change in coin form.

As the train approached the station, I was startled at how quiet it ran, a low electrical hum as it stopped. When I boarded I noticed that there was no wayto check tickets. But, if you get caught on the light rail without a ticket, you are subject to a fine over $200.

There was no designated handicapped seating. Instead two of the benches in each car fold up, allowing a more open space to park my wheelchair. No straps or belts were offered and I was forced to hold on to the handrail for support.

My trip to downtown only took about 20 minutes, dropping me off without incident. Overall I found the light rail economical, though I would probably make more use of it if a station were opened in Scottsdale.