Is NYC transport wheelchair friendly?

12 December 2014 - 18:44 By Paul Ash
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New York cab drivers are legally obliged to transport disabled people
New York cab drivers are legally obliged to transport disabled people
Image: Paul Ash

Our travel expert answers your questions

My husband and I will visit New York in March. He is confined to a wheelchair, so I would like to know how easy it is to get around the city. Can we use public transport and are the Broadway theatres wheelchair-friendly? — Bessie Hope

New York City prides itself on being friendly to disabled residents and visitors. All city buses are equipped with lifts for wheelchair users and many subway stations have elevators and ramps. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) also offers reduced fares on its subways, buses, and commuter railroads to customers with disabilities. You can find further  details under the  “accessibility” section on the MTA site (mta.info). You can also take cabs, as taxi drivers are legally obliged to transport all passengers and may not turn down the disabled. Wheelchairs have to be stowed in the boot. Broadway theatres are also very “disabled friendly”, but you need to book early well in advance for seats suitable for wheelchair users. There are also discounts for wheelchair users and a companion. Book directly with the theatres and request the wheelchair section.

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