paul palmer & donna rose, ) - michigan flyer motion for tro.pdfsouthern division paul palmer...

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

SOUTHERN DIVISION

PAUL PALMER & DONNA ROSE, )

)

Plaintiffs, ) 2:15-cv-13567

)

v. ) HONORABLE

) VICTORIA A. ROBERTS

DELTA AIRLINES INC. & WAYNE )

COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY ) ORAL ARGUMENT

) REQUESTED

Defendants. )

________________________________________/

NYMAN TURKISH PC DICKINSON WRIGHT PLLC

Jason M. Turkish (P76310) Timothy H. Howlett (P24030)

Melissa M. Nyman (CA Bar #293207) 500 Woodward Avenue, Suite 4000

Ryan T. Kaiser (P79491) Detroit, MI 48226

20700 Civic Center Drive, Suite 115 (313) 223-3500

Southfield, Michigan 48076 [email protected]

Phone: (248) 284-2480

[email protected] Attorney for Defendant Delta

[email protected]

[email protected] ZAUSMER, AUGUST &

Attorneys for Plaintiffs CALDWELL, P.C.

Gary K. August (P48730)

Jamie J. Janisch (P72516)

31700 Middlebelt Rd., Ste. 150

Farmington Hills, MI 48334

Phone: (248) 851-4111

[email protected]

[email protected]

Attorneys for Defendant WCAA _________________________________________________________________

PLAINTIFFS’ EMERGENCY MOTION FOR A TEMPORARY

RESTRAINING ORDER AND/OR MOTION FOR PRELIMINARY

INJUNCTION TO PREVENT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF

SEGREGATED BUS STOPS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

2:15-cv-13567-VAR-EAS Doc # 26 Filed 03/08/16 Pg 1 of 39 Pg ID 1093

NOW COMES Plaintiffs Paul Palmer and Donna Rose (“Plaintiffs”), by

and through their undersigned attorneys, and hereby move this Honorable Court

for a Temporary Restraining Order, and / or preliminary injunction, pursuant to

Fed. R. Civ. P. 65 and E.D. Mich. LR 65.1 in order to prevent irreparable injury

to Plaintiffs’ federally-protected rights and interests under the Americans with

Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the

Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act, and the Fourteenth

Amendment to the United States Constitution. In support of this Motion,

Plaintiffs rely on the Complaint filed with the Court, as well as the attached

memorandum of law. Plaintiffs further request an opportunity, following the

issuance of a TRO, for an evidentiary hearing to elicit testimony in support of a

preliminary injunction.

WHEREFORE, for all the reasons set forth in the attached memorandum

of law, Plaintiffs hereby request that this Honorable Court grant a Temporary

Restraining Order and Preliminary Injunction preventing Defendants from

implementing or enforcing the plan recently announced by Defendant Wayne

County Airport Authority in its proposed updated ground transportation

regulations.

As required by Local Rule 7.1(a), Plaintiffs’ counsel sought concurrence

from Defendants’ counsel on March 4, 2016, via email in which Plaintiffs’

2


counsel fully informed opposing counsel of the relief sought in the instant

Motion. Defendants’ counsel declined concurrence.

Respectfully submitted,

NYMAN TURKISH PC

/s/ Jason M. Turkish

Jason M. Turkish, Michigan Bar # P76310

Ryan T. Kaiser, Michigan Bar # P79491

20700 Civic Center Drive, Suite 115

Southfield, Michigan 48076

Phone: (248) 284-2480

Fax: (248) 262-5024

[email protected]

[email protected]

Co-Counsel for Plaintiffs

By: Melissa M. Nyman, CA Bar #293207

5800 Stanford Ranch Road, Suite 720

Rocklin, California 95765

Phone: (916) 218-4340

Fax: (916) 218-4341

[email protected]

Dated: March 8, 2016 Co-Counsel for Plaintiffs

3


IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

SOUTHERN DIVISION

PAUL PALMER & DONNA ROSE, )

)

Plaintiffs, ) 2:15-cv-13567

)

v. ) HONORABLE

) VICTORIA A. ROBERTS

DELTA AIRLINES INC. & WAYNE )

COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY ) ORAL ARGUMENT

) REQUESTED

Defendants. )

________________________________________/

NYMAN TURKISH PC DICKINSON WRIGHT PLLC

Jason M. Turkish (P76310) Timothy H. Howlett (P24030)

Melissa M. Nyman (293207) 500 Woodward Avenue, Suite 4000

Ryan T. Kaiser (P79491) Detroit, MI 48226

20700 Civic Center Drive, Suite 115 (313) 223-3500

Southfield, Michigan 48076 [email protected]

Phone: (248) 284-2480

[email protected] Attorneys for Defendant Delta

[email protected]

ZAUSMER, AUGUST &

Attorneys for Plaintiffs CALDWELL, P.C.

Gary K. August (P48730)

Jamie J. Janisch (P72516)

31700 Middlebelt Rd., Ste. 150

Farmington Hills, MI 48334

Phone: (248) 851-4111

[email protected]

[email protected]

Attorneys for Defendant WCAA _________________________________________________________________

PLAINTIFFS’ BRIEF IN SUPPORT OF THEIR EMERGENCY MOTION

FOR A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER AND/OR MOTION FOR

PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION TO PREVENT THE IMPLEMENTATION

OF SEGREGATED BUS STOPS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH

DISABILITIES


TABLE OF CONTENTS

INDEX OF AUTHORITIES …………………...…………….………………… iv

STATEMENT OF ISSUES PRESENTED ……………….………………….. viii

CONTROLLING AUTHORITY ……………...………..……………………… ix

INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………… 1

ARGUMENT ……………….…………………….…………..………………… 3

I. APPLICABLE LAW ……..………….…….……………………… 3

II. PLAINTIFFS ARE LIKELY TO SUCCEED ON THE MERITS ... 4

a. Defendant WCAA Provided for Insufficient Public Comment

and Review Before the Regulation’s March 14, 2016

Implementation. ………………..…………………………….… 5

b. Federal Law Prohibits Segregated Accommodations Where

Individuals with Disabilities Can be Accommodated in an

Integrated Manner. …………..………………………………… 8

c. The Implementation of Segregated Bus Stops Is An Attempt

to Impose Defendants’ Obligations Under Federal Law on

Third-Parties. …….………….…………….………….………. 14

d. Segregated Bus Stops Violate the Equal Protection Clause of

the Fourteenth Amendment. ………………………………….. 16

III. PLAINTIFFS WILL SUFFER IRREPARABLE INJURY

WITHOUT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF. …..…….....….…………….. 16

a. Plaintiffs Will Suffer Inherent Irreparable Harm Associated

with the Stigma of Disability Discrimination. ….……………. 17

b. Plaintiffs, and Those Similarly Situated will Suffer

Irreparable Harm from Ground Transportation Provider’s

Inability to Adequately Service DTW Under

ii


the Proposed Regulations. ………….………………………… 20

IV. EQUITABLE CONSIDERATIONS DEMONSTRATE THAT

AN INJUNCTION WOULD NOT CAUSE HARM TO

DEFENDANTS, AND WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC GOOD .. 21

a. Defendants Will Not be Harmed by a Temporary

Restraining Order. …………………………………………… 22

b. The Public Interest Favors Enforcement of Civil Rights

Statutes. ………………………………………………………. 22

V. PLAINTIFFS SHOULD NOT BE REQUIRED TO POST A

BOND. …………………...………………………………………. 24

CONCLUSION …………………………...…………………………………… 25

iii


INDEX OF AUTHORITIES

United States Supreme Court Cases

Armour v. City of Indianapolis, 132 S. Ct. 2073 (2012) ……...…………… 19, 20

Chevron, U.S.A. v. NRDC, Inc., 467 U.S. 837 (1984) ………………………… 11

Gardner v. Toilet Goods Ass'n, 387 U.S. 167 (1967) ………….…….…….…… 8

Heller v. Doe, 509 U.S. 312 (1993) ………………….………………………... 16

Univ. of Tex. v. Camenisch, 451 U.S. 390 (1981) ………...…………………….. 4

Winter v. NRDC, Inc., 555 U.S. 7 (2008) ……………...………………….. 17, 21

Sixth Circuit Opinions

Connection Distrib. Co. v. Reno, 154 F.3d 281 (6th Cir. 1998) ……...………… 3

Hamilton's Bogarts, Inc. v. Michigan, 501 F.3d 644 (6th Cir. 2007) …...……… 3

Jones v. City of Monroe, 341 F.3d 474 (6th Cir. 2003) ………...………………. 4

McPherson v. Mich. High Sch. Ath. Ass’n.,

119 F.3d 453 (6th Cir. 1997) ………………………………………... 3, 4, 21

Overstreet v. Lexington-Fayette Urban Cty. Gov't,

305 F.3d 566 (6th Cir. 2002) ……………..………………………. ix, 17, 18

Six Clinics Holding Corp., II v. Cafcomp Sys.,

119 F.3d 393 (6th Cir. 1997) …………….…………….…………………... 4

Workman v. Bredesen, 486 F.3d 896 (6th Cir. 2007) …………………………... 3

D.C. Circuit Opinions

Am. Council of the Blind v. Paulson, 525 F.3d 1256 (D.C. Cir. 2008) ………. 15

iv


Second Circuit Opinions

Disabled in Action v. Bd. Of Elections, 752 F.3d 189 (2d Cir. 2014) …….…... 15

Doctor's Assocs. v. Stuart, 85 F.3d 975 (2d Cir. 1996) ……….…..…………... 24

Shapiro v. Cadman Towers, Inc., 51 F.3d 328 (2d Cir. 1995) ………..……….. 17

Fourth Circuit Opinions

W. Va. Highlands Conservancy v. Island Creek Coal Co.,

441 F.2d 232 (4th Cir. 1971) …………………...…………………...... 24, 25

Tenth Circuit Opinions

Cont’l Oil Co. v. Frontier Ref. Co., 338 F.2d 780 (10th Cir. 1964) ……..…… 24

Federal District Court Opinions

Cal. Council of the Blind v. County of Alameda,

985 F. Supp.2d 1229 (N.D. Cal. 2013) ………………..…………………. 15

Caspar v. Snyder, 77 F. Supp.3d 616 (E.D. Mich. 2015) …………….……….. 18

Epicenter of Steubenville v. City of Steubenville, 924 F. Supp. 845 (1996) …... 17

Heather K. v City of Mallard, 887 F. Supp. 1249 (N.D. Iowa 1995) ………… 23

Neveux v. Webcraft Techs.,

921 F. Supp. 1568 (E.D. Mich. 1996) ……………………………... 4, 21, 22

Pollis v. New Sch. for Soc. Research, 829 F. Supp 584 (S.D.N.Y. 1993) ….…. 18

Southerland v. Fritz, 955 F. Supp. 760 (E.D. Mich. 1996) ….……….…….…… 3

Sunrise Dev. v. Town of Huntington, 62 F. Supp.2d 762 (E.D.N.Y. 1999) ….... 17

Thomas by & Through Thomas v. Davidson Academy,

846 F. Supp. 611 (M.D. Tenn. 1994) ………………...……………………. 4

v


United States v. Matusoff Rental Co.,

494 F. Supp. 2d 740 (S.D. Ohio 2007) …………..……………………….. 18

United States Constitution

Fourteenth Amendment …………………..……………………………. ix, 16, 19

United States Code

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973

29 U.S.C. § 794 ………………………………………………………. ix, 14

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1973

42 U.S.C. § 12101 …………….………………………………… ix, 8, 9, 23

42 U.S.C. § 12132 …………….….……………………………………… 14

42 U.S.C. § 12148 ……………...………………………………………… ix

42 U.S.C. § 12182 ……………………...…………………………….. ix, 14

Rules

FED. R. CIV. P. 65 ………………………..………………………………. ix, 3, 24

Regulations

28 C.F.R. § 35.130 …………………….……..….……………………... ix, 11, 12

28 C.F.R. § 35.150 ………………….………..……….………………………... ix

§ 36.203 of Appendix B to 28 C.F.R. § 36 …….……….……………… ix, 13, 15

49 C.F.R. § 27.7 …………………….……………………………………… ix, 12

49 C.F.R. § 37.207 ……………….…………………………………………. 2, 10

Federal Register

63 Fed. Reg. 51676 (Sep. 28, 1998) ………...…………………………... 2, 10, 11

63 Fed. Reg. 51669 (Sep. 28, 1998) ……….…………………………………... 11

vi


Michigan Statutes

The Administrative Procedures Act

MICH. COMP. LAWS § 24.224. ………….………………..………………... 7

The Michigan Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act

MICH. COMP. LAWS § 37.1102 ……………….…...……………………… 14

vii


STATEMENT OF ISSUES PRESENTED

I. Whether the Court should prevent Defendants from implementing

segregated bus stops at Detroit Metro Airport, which would force

individuals with disabilities to report their disability to third-parties and

access public transportation via a segregated bus stop, where

accommodations that segregate individuals with disabilities are strongly

disfavored by Federal Law, and where the resulting stigmatization of

Plaintiffs and those similarly situated will result in irreparable harm.

viii


MOST CONTROLLING AUTHORITY

The most controlling authorities for the relief sought includes the

Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 12101(a), 42 U.S.C. § 12148, and

42 U.S.C. § 12182(a); Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C.

§794(a); U.S. CONST. amend. XIV; FED. R. CIV. PRO. 65; 28 C.F.R. § 35.130; 28

C.F.R. § 35.150; § 36.203 OF APPENDIX B TO 28 C.F.R. § 36; 49 C.F.R. § 27.7;

Overstreet v. Lexington-Fayette Urban Cty. Gov't, 305 F.3d 566 (6th Cir. 2002).

ix


INTRODUCTION

Plaintiffs Paul Palmer and Donna Rose (“Plaintiffs”) ask this Honorable

Court to prevent Defendants Wayne County Airport Authority (“WCAA”) and

Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”) (collectively “Defendants”) from implementing

new regulations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (“DTW”), which

would effectively segregate disabled ground transportation users from non-

disabled individuals accessing DTW. (Exhibit A, Regulations Effective

3/14/2016, Pg. 12). Rather than returning to an era of offering an accessible and

integrated curbside bus stop at the McNamara Terminal, as existed for five years

prior to the 2014 relocation, Defendants now propose separate bus stops for

persons with disabilities, however, they do so in a segregated and illegal manner.

The instant cause of action alleges that Defendants’ facilities are

inaccessible for individuals with disabilities who use public transportation to

access this public airport. Instead of taking action to ensure their facilities are

accessible and compliant with Federal Law, Defendants now plan to shift the

burden of accessibility to third-parties. This “plan” does nothing to address the

accessibility concerns raised by Plaintiffs. Instead, it represents a disingenuous

attempt to appease disabled individuals, without the need for Defendants to

actually take any action. Not only is this plan ineffective, but it will lead to

further stigmatization of Plaintiffs, stigmatization the Americans with Disabilities

1


Act of 1990 (“ADA”) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (the “Rehab Act”) were

passed to address. The Defendants’ insistence that this plan will improve

conditions for disabled individuals advances the same overprotective,

exclusionary rhetoric that necessitated passage of the ADA in the first place.

Critically, the Department of Transportation has promulgated rules and

regulations, which provide that “it is not appropriate for the Department to adopt

a system institutionalizing disability-based distinctions in the quality of service.”

63 Fed. Reg. 51676; see also 49 C.F.R. § 37.207. This means that public

transportation providers are prohibited by Federal Law from even providing the

accommodation in question.

Finally, Federal Courts have found that accommodations that are

dependent on the cooperation of third-parties are inadequate. A party subject to

the ADA or the Rehab Act cannot compel others to do the heavy lifting for them.

Rather, these entities must do what is necessary to ensure they comply with

Federal Law, without dependence on third-party cooperation.

Simply, because the plan proposed by Defendant WCAA is in violation of

Federal Law, and because it fails to address the lack of accessibility at this public

airport, Plaintiffs ask this Court to enter an order preventing the plan’s

implementation.

2


ARGUMENT

Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65, a party may move for a

temporary restraining order, where the moving party is likely to succeed on the

merits and will suffer irreparable injury. Here, Plaintiffs ask this Honorable Court

to grant a Temporary Restraining Order to prevent the stigmatization that will

necessarily result from Defendant WCAA’s plan to implement separate bus stops

for individuals with disabilities at its public airport.

I. APPLICABLE LAW.

The factors to be weighed before issuing a TRO or a preliminary injunction

are the same. See, e.g. Workman v. Bredesen, 486 F.3d 896, 905-5 (6th Cir.

2007); Southerland v. Fritz, 955 F. Supp. 760, 761 (E.D. Mich. 1996). The

standard for issuing a preliminary injunction in this Circuit is well established. In

Connection Distrib. Co. v. Reno, 154 F.3d 281, 288 (6th Cir. 1998), the court

held that “[i]n determining whether or not to grant a preliminary injunction, a

district court considers four factors: (1) the plaintiff’s likelihood of success on the

merits; (2) whether the plaintiff could suffer irreparable harm without the

injunction; (3) whether granting the injunction will cause substantial harm to

others; and (4) the impact of the injunction on the public interest.” see also

Hamilton's Bogarts, Inc. v. Michigan, 501 F.3d 644, 649 (6th Cir. 2007).

Generally, “the four considerations applicable to preliminary injunctions

3


[and TROs] are factors to be balanced and not prerequisites that must be satisfied.

These factors simply guide the discretion of the court; they are not mean to be

rigid and unbending requirements.” McPherson v. Mich. High Sch. Ath. Ass’n.,

119 F.3d 453, 459 (6th Cir. 1997).

II. PLAINTIFFS ARE LIKELY TO SUCCEED ON THE

MERITS.

“In order to establish a likelihood of success on the merits of a claim, a

plaintiff must show more than a mere possibility of success.” Six Clinics Holding

Corp., II v. Cafcomp Sys., 119 F.3d 393, 402 (6th Cir. 1997). Courts have held

that, “a preliminary injunction is customarily granted on the basis of procedures

that are less formal and evidence that is less complete than in a trial on the

merits.” Univ. of Tex. v. Camenisch, 451 U.S. 390, 395 (1981). “Similarly, the

moving party need show less likelihood of success on the merits if the other

factors indicate the Court should issue a preliminary injunction.” Neveux v.

Webcraft Techs., 921 F. Supp. 1568, 1571 (E.D. Mich. 1996).

To prevail in claims under the ADA and Rehabilitation Act, a disabled

plaintiff need only prove that they have been discriminated against based solely

on their disability in the provision of a service they are otherwise qualified to

participate in. Jones v. City of Monroe, 341 F.3d 474, 477 (6th Cir. 2003);

Thomas by & Through Thomas v. Davidson Academy, 846 F. Supp. 611, 617

(M.D. Tenn. 1994).

4


a. Defendant WCAA Provided for Insufficient Public Comment

and Review before the Regulation’s March 14, 2016

Implementation.

Aside from being adverse to the purpose of the ADA, the plan announced

by Defendant WCAA poses operational and logistical problems for transportation

users and providers alike. Unfortunately, Defendants have not been adequately

apprised of these concerns, because they have failed to provide a sufficient period

of time for public comment and review. Defendant WCAA provided the

proposed regulations to transportation providers on February 25, 2016. This

correspondence included a cover letter, which provided a public comment period

from February 25, 2016 to March 4, 2016 at 4:30 PM. (Exhibit B, Regulations

Cover Letter). Critically, the proposed regulations have not been published on

Defendant WCAA or Defendant Delta’s website. Defendants have not provided

the general public or regular DTW customers with notice of, or a copy of, the

proposed regulations. (Exhibit C, Affidavit of Chad Cushman). These proposed

regulations will go into effect on March 14, 2016, and will be simultaneously

published on Defendant WCAA’s website. (Exhibit B). There appears to be no

doubt that the March 14th date is set in stone. While Defendants have not

published the regulations, they have distributed a press release that touts the “new

options” for disabled travelers as an improvement to accessibility at this public

airport. (Exhibit D, WCAA Press Release). Defendants have made it clear to this

5


Court and to the public that segregated bus stops will be the law of the land at

this public airport.

Defendant WCAA’s hasty drafting and proposal of these regulations has

failed to take into account the concerns of ground transportation providers, and,

critically, the concerns of public transportation providers, a service

disproportionately relied on by disabled individuals and the elderly. Chad

Cushman, Vice President of Indian Trails, believes that the requirement of

servicing two bus stops will cause significant delays to regular service, delaying

not only individuals with disabilities, but all other users of public transportation.

(Exhibit C, Declaration of Chad Cushman).

For a public airport that professes to value safety above all else, the

proposed regulations seem to promote a chaotic environment, where experienced

bus operators are forced to break from standard operating procedures, while

attempting desperately to comply with stringent scheduling requirements

imposed elsewhere in the proposed regulations. (Exhibit A). For example, the

regulations prohibit bus operators with shared management from occupying two

spots at the current public transportation bus stop in the GTC, recognizing that

these providers “should be able stagger bus times, slow down buses on their way

to the airport, and use other dispatch, operations, and communications techniques

and technologies to keep from having two or more buses in a GTC or at the

6


McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb at a time.” (Exhibit A, Pg. 8). It is

unreasonable for Defendant WCAA to enforce these stringent requirements,

while requiring some buses, but not all buses, to use two separate bus stops. The

segregated bus stops proposed by Defendant WCAA are not only illegal, but

impractical, a fact Defendants would have been aware of had the proposal

provided for an adequate review period.

Simply, the inefficient process that led to the imminent implementation of

the proposed regulations threatens to harm Plaintiffs and those similarly situated.

The Administrative Procedures Act of 1969 (the “Act”), is a Michigan Statute

passed to provide procedures for state agencies that pass rules and regulations.

See generally MICH. COMP. LAWS § 24.224. The Act requires state agencies to

create committees and publish proposed rules before they are enforced and

implemented. Id. While Defendants are not necessarily subject to this statute, it

provides valuable insight into procedures government agencies or political

subdivisions should follow when implementing regulations such as these.

Defendants have provided an inadequate comment and review period, have

introduced a plan that will be practically impossible to implement, and they have

again ignored the needs and dignity of their disabled customers, failing to even

publicly publish regulations that will potentially affect thousands of individuals

7


in Southeast Michigan and beyond. For these reasons, this Honorable Court

should enjoin the regulation’s imminent implementation.1

b. Federal Law Prohibits Segregated Accommodations Where

Individuals with Disabilities Can be Accommodated in an

Integrated Manner.

Defendants’ proposal to implement segregated bus stops is at variance with

the purpose of the ADA, as well as implementing regulations to the ADA and the

Rehab Act. (Exhibit A, Pg. 12). Accordingly, Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on

the merits.

In passing the ADA, Congress found that “historically, society has tended

to isolate and segregate individuals with disabilities […] such forms of

discrimination against individuals with disabilities continue to be a serious and

pervasive social problem.” 42 U.S.C. § 12101(a)(2) (emphasis added). Congress

also found that “individuals with disabilities continually encounter various forms

of discrimination, including outright intentional exclusion, the discriminatory

effects of failure to make modifications to existing facilities and practices […]

segregation, and relegation to lesser services….” Id. at § 12101(a)(5) (emphasis

added). The stated purpose of the ADA is “to provide a clear and comprehensive

1 Federal Courts have recognized that illegal federal regulations and rules may be enjoined prior to final implementation. See e.g. Gardner v. Toilet Goods Ass'n, 387 U.S. 167, 168 (1967). Here, the Court may enjoin implementation of the regulation proposed by Defendant WCAA, as they are illegal and will be implemented without proper due process for DTW transportation users and providers.

8


national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with

disabilities.” Id. at § 12101(b)(1).

Defendants’ proposal to implement segregated bus stops, available for use

by individuals with disabilities, upon request to their third-party transportation

provider, varies greatly from Congress’ findings in passing the ADA, a Federal

Law designed to promote inclusion, integration, and independence. Instead,

Defendants’ plan promotes exclusion and segregation. The plan will require

Plaintiffs, and those similarly situated, to report their disability to their

transportation provider, who then and only then, will be allowed to use the

segregated stop, with the rest of their non-disabled passengers waiting on board

for the individual with a disability to unload or load, before proceeding to the

current, inaccessible stop in the Ground Transportation Center. (Exhibit A, Pg.

12). It is no secret that practically everyone accessing DTW is in a hurry, and

become frustrated at any delay. Defendants will gladly put Plaintiffs, and those

similarly situated, at risk of ridicule and mental anguish simply to avoid their

obligation to operate their facilities in an accessible way. This is the very attitude

that contributed to this country’s dark history of institutionalization and exclusion

of disabled individuals. This harm is real and identifiable, and Defendants’

willingness to subject Plaintiffs to this type of humiliation shows why judicial

intervention is necessary to ensure continuing accessibility at this public airport.

9


While Defendants may be content to analogize the segregated bus stops to pre-

boarding an aircraft, that comparison falls flat, as what their plan would actually

be analogous to is boarding passengers without disabilities at one gate and then

having the plane taxi to another gate to board a passenger with a disability prior

to takeoff. In a word, this plan is absurd.

The ill-conceived plan also fails to recognize that the Department of

Transportation (“DOT”) prohibits public transportation providers from providing

separate services to disabled passengers. Public transportation providers are

already held to the highest standards of inclusion and accessibility for individuals

with disabilities, and the implementation of segregated bus stops is incompatible

with accessibility requirements imposed on public transportation providers. 49

C.F.R. § 37.207 provides “[i]t shall be considered discriminatory […] to […]

[f]ail to provide reservation services to passengers with disabilities equivalent to

those provided other passengers.” In responding to public comments to this

section, the DOT stated “it is not appropriate for the Department to adopt a

system institutionalizing disability-based distinctions in the quality of service

[…] the backbone of intercity service must consist of fully accessible,

nondiscriminatory everyday service if the purposes of the ADA are to be

10


fulfilled.” 63 Fed. Reg. 51676 (Sep. 28, 1998).2 Furthermore, “[t]he fact that

passengers may call for information does not negate the discriminatory impact of

requiring a disabled passenger to make an advance reservation while other

passengers can and do receive immediate service.” 63 Fed. Reg. 51669, 51676

(Sep. 28, 2998). The DOT’s interpretation of the ADA and implementing

regulations makes clear that the implementation of segregated bus stops, only

available upon request by an individual with a disability, are contrary to the

purpose and intent of the ADA. See generally, Chevron, U.S.A., Inc. v. NRDC,

Inc., 467 U.S. 837, 844 (1984) (“considerable weight should be accorded to an

executive department's construction of a statutory scheme it is entrusted to

administer…”).

Additional regulations also suggest that the implementation of segregated

bus stops is at variance with the purpose and intent of the ADA and the Rehab

Act, which require accommodations to be made in an integrated manner.

Regulations to Title II of the ADA, which Defendant WCAA is subject to as a

public entity, provides “[a] public entity shall administer services programs, and

activities in the most integrated setting appropriate for the needs of qualified

individuals with disabilities.” 28 C.F.R. § 35.130(d). 28 C.F.R. § 35.150 requires

2 The DOT’s extensive responses to public comments contained in the Federal Register could provide Defendants

with an example of how to implement regulations in a manner that is fair and upholds basic principles of due

process, as opposed to seeking “public comment” on regulations that were never in fact made public.

11


that entities give “priority to those methods that offer services, programs, and

activities to qualified individuals with disabilities in the most integrated setting

appropriate.” Regulations to the Rehab Act prohibit entities that receive federal

funding from providing “different or separate aid, benefits, or services to persons

with a disability or to any class of persons with a disability unless such action is

necessary to provide qualified persons with a disability with aid, benefits or

services that are as effective as those provided to persons who are not disabled.”

49 C.F.R. § 27.7(b)(iv) (emphasis added).

Clearly, the plan to effectively segregate disabled transportation users from

all other users of ground transportation is not necessary to provide Plaintiffs with

reasonable access to DTW. Defendants operated a single, all-inclusive public bus

stop at International Arrivals for approximately five years, before relegating

public transportation to the most inaccessible corner of the GTC. (R. 1,

Complaint, ¶ 2, PG ID # 2). Defendants are clearly capable of returning to the

status quo that existed for years prior to 2014, a curbside public bus stop, which

would provide Plaintiffs and those similarly situated with the integrated access

Federal Law guarantees them, or the Defendants could simply allow all public

transportation users to utilize the new bust stops, which would comply with

Federal Law, and as an added benefit prevent the absurd outcome of the Airport

12


attempting to compel people to stay on the bus when it stops at the closer location

because they are not “disabled enough” to enjoy the new closer stop.

In addition, implementing regulations to Title III of the ADA, which

Defendants are subject to as operators of a place of public accommodation,

provide “[t]he ADA recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an

integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of

disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons

with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens […] these provisions are

intended to prohibit exclusion and segregation of individuals with disabilities…”

Section 36.203 of Appendix B to 28 C.F.R. § 36 (emphasis added). Appendix B

further provides that “nothing in the ADA requires individuals with disabilities to

accept special accommodations and services for individuals with disabilities that

may segregate them.” Id. (emphasis added).

In opposition to the language of the regulations, and the overarching theme

of “integration,” Defendant WCAA’s “plan” will instead have the effect of

forcing disabled public transportation users into the most segregated setting

possible. While the regulations indicate this type of accommodation may be

acceptable where absolutely necessary, that is not the case here. Segregating

disabled individuals is not “necessary” to ensure accessibility at DTW. For years,

DTW operated an integrated public bus stop at International Arrivals, only

13


moving from this location after citing unsubstantiated safety concerns. (R. 1,

Complaint, § 2, PG ID # 2). Clearly, accessibility and integration has worked

before at this public airport, and can certainly work again.

The regulations also make clear that disabled individuals are in no way

obliged to accept the “plan” proposed by Defendant WCAA, as it effectively

segregates them. The only way Defendants can comply with Federal Law is to

operate their facilities in a way that is accessible for everyone, and which does

not segregate disabled individuals and treat them as second-class citizens.

Defendants cannot escape the fact that the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and the

Michigan Persons with Disabilities Act, all have varying requirements, but they

all share one common theme: persons with disabilities must not be unfairly

excluded from accessing public accommodations, and parties that offer such

accommodations have a duty to make reasonable modifications to ensure that

persons with disabilities have equal access. 42 U.S.C. § 12132; 42 U.S.C. §

12182; MICH. COMP. LAWS § 37.1102; 29 U.S.C. § 794.

c. The Implementation of Segregated Bus Stops Is An Attempt to

Impose Defendants’ Obligations Under Federal Law on Third-

Parties.

Given the opportunity to operate their facilities in an accessible manner, as

required by Federal Law, Defendants instead will now shift that burden to third-

parties through the implementation of segregated bus stops. (Exhibit A, Pg. 12).

14


The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals has recognized that “the Rehabilitation Act’s

emphasis on independent living and self-sufficiency ensures that, for the

disabled, the enjoyment of a public benefit is not contingent upon the cooperation

of third persons.” Am. Council of the Blind v. Paulson, 525 F.3d 1256, 1269

(D.C. Cir. 2008); see also Disabled in Action v. Bd. Of Elections, 752 F.3d 189,

200 (2d Cir. 2014); Cal. Council of the Blind v. County of Alameda, 985 F.

Supp.2d 1229 (N.D. Cal. 2013). Simply, Defendants cannot avoid their

obligations under Federal Law by requiring third-party bus operators to

accommodate their customers by servicing a second, segregated stop.

Critically, as stated, regulations to Title III of the ADA recognize that

accommodations may only be provided in a segregated manner where absolutely

necessary. Section 36.203 of Appendix B to 28 C.F.R. § 36. As transportation

providers are themselves subject to the terms and provision of the ADA, each

transportation provider servicing DTW will have to determine whether using the

segregated bus removes them from the realm of compliance with Federal Law.

Again, the creation of segregated bus stops is not an accommodation being

provided by Defendants, rather, it is an accommodation being imposed on third-

parties. This “plan” does not address the inaccessibility of the current stop in the

GTC.

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Furthermore, the “plan” also raises serious logistical concerns. Requiring

transportation providers to use separate stops for their disabled and non-disabled

passengers has the potential to create a chaotic atmosphere at the segregated bus

stops, as well as in the GTC, as bus operators try desperately to stay on schedule

while servicing multiple stops. This has the potential to create a dangerous

situation at DTW, as transportation providers work frantically to stay on

schedule.

d. Segregated Bus Stops Violate the Equal Protection Clause of the

Fourteenth Amendment.

Finally, the proposed “plan” to effectively segregate disabled individuals

from the rest of the customers accessing DTW violates the Equal Protection

Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. While disabled individuals are not

recognized as a “protected class” for purposes of Equal Protection analysis, it

remains difficult for Defendants to show the proposed plan to segregate disabled

individuals has a rational basis, where doing so clearly is in violation of Federal

Law. See generally Heller v. Doe, 509 U.S. 312 (1993). It is hard to imagine that

a court could find illegal conduct to be rational.

III. PLAINTIFFS WILL SUFFER IRREPARABLE HARM

WITHOUT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF.

The stigmatization associated with the use of segregated bus stops

constitutes irreparable injury, which can never be adequately compensated by

16


monetary damages. Furthermore, the intangible injuries associated with this

stigmatization, as well as violations of Plaintiffs’ Constitutional Rights, are

irreparable injuries, justifying the issuance of a TRO.

In order to demonstrate irreparable injury, a plaintiff must show that he or

she is “likely to suffer irreparable harm before a decision on the merits can be

rendered (A preliminary injunction will not be issued simply to prevent the

possibility of some remote future injury).” Winter v. NRDC, Inc., 555 U.S. 7, 22

(2008) (emphasis added) (internal quotation marks omitted). A plaintiff suffers

irreparable harm if the alleged injury “is not fully compensable by monetary

damages.” Overstreet v. Lexington-Fayette Urban Cty. Gov't, 305 F.3d 566, 578

(6th Cir. 2002).

a. Plaintiffs Will Suffer Inherent Irreparable Harm Associated

with the Stigma of Disability Discrimination.

Courts have recognized that a plaintiff may suffer “irreparable harm

associated with disability discrimination and the correlative stigma which

attaches itself to victims.” Sunrise Dev. v. Town of Huntington, 62 F. Supp.2d

762, 779 (E.D.N.Y. 1999); citing Shapiro v. Cadman Towers, Inc., 51 F.3d 328,

336 (2d Cir. 1995); see also Epicenter of Steubenville v. City of Steubenville, 924

F. Supp. 845, 853 (1996) (“The law does not permit a person to buy the right to

discriminate against the handicapped in exchange for money damages.”).

Furthermore, courts have found “intangible matters, such as loss of dignity and

17


other emotional injury […] to be irreparable.” Caspar v. Snyder, 77 F. Supp.3d

616, 640 (E.D. Mich. 2015); see also United States v. Matusoff Rental Co., 494 F.

Supp. 2d 740, 756 (S.D. Ohio 2007) (concluding that irreparable harm had been

established where victims of discriminatory practices "suffered emotional

distress" and "the remedies available at law are inadequate to compensate for

such injuries" because emotional distress is "difficult, if not impossible, to

calculate with mathematical precision"); Pollis v. New Sch. for Soc. Research,

829 F. Supp 584, 598 (S.D.N.Y. 1993) (rejecting the contention "that non-

economic claims such as emotional or psychological damage can never, as a

matter of law, demonstrate irreparable harm sufficient to justify a preliminary

injunction"). “Courts have also held that a plaintiff can demonstrate that a denial

of an injunction will cause irreparable harm if the claim is based upon a violation

of the plaintiff's constitutional rights.” Overstreet, 305 F. 3d at 578.

Perhaps nothing is more stigmatizing than outright exclusion and

segregation, the reality Plaintiffs and those similarly situated will face when

deciding whether they will request the accommodation of boarding at the

segregated bus stops for individuals with disabilities, or if they will attempt to

board in the inaccessible, dangerous bus stop in the GTC, which, of course, in its

current configuration is completely unusable by Plaintiffs. (R. 1, Complaint, ¶

23h, PG ID # 12). Individuals with disabilities who choose to request the

18


accommodation will be forced to reveal their disability to third-party

transportation providers, who will then be able to unload such individuals at the

segregated stops. (Exhibit A, Pg. 12). Unfortunately, according to the regulations,

all other patrons of the transportation provider in question will be forced to

remain on the bus, and use the current inaccessible stop. This image, of a

disabled person being identified and treated differently than all other passengers

is heartbreaking, and more importantly under the law, unnecessary and illegal.

The intangible injuries associated with this mistreatment of individuals with

disabilities can never be adequately compensated by monetary damages, meaning

they should be considered irreparable. Defendant WCAA has proudly touted that

the implementation of segregated bus stops expands options for individuals with

disabilities. But of course, options are meaningless when they promote the very

stigmatization the ADA purports to quell.

In addition to the “plan’s” incongruity to Federal statutes and regulations,

Defendants conduct will also violate Plaintiffs’ right to equal protection of the

laws under the Fourteenth Amendment, by relegating disabled public

transportation users to a segregated bus stop. As this brief has pointed out, this

plan is in violation of Federal Law. Illegal conduct cannot be deemed rational,

and accordingly, the “plan” will violate Plaintiffs’ rights to equal protection, and

this Honorable Court should enjoin its implementation. Armour v. City of

19


Indianapolis, 132 S. Ct. 2073, 2080 (2012) (the legislative action will be upheld

if “there is a plausible policy reason for the classification.”). There is no plausible

policy reason Defendants can advance that would justify segregating disabled

individuals from all other customers at DTW, where doing so is in violation of

the ADA and the Rehab Act. While state actors are given deference in these

situations, that deference cannot be used to uphold regulations that violate

Federal Law.

b. Plaintiffs, and Those Similarly Situated will Suffer Irreparable

Harm from Ground Transportation Provider’s Inability to

Adequately Service DTW Under the Proposed Regulations.

Ground transportation providers will be unable to comply with the

segregated bus stop model Defendant WCAA plans to unveil. According to Chad

Cushman, Vice President of Michigan Flyer LLC, Defendant WCAA is clearly

overconfident that segregated bus stops can be properly serviced, particularly

with the short-notice of the change provided to ground transportation providers.

(Exhibit C). Not only will Plaintiffs and those similarly situated face

stigmatization, but all users of public transportation will face unreasonable delays

as a result of separate bus stops for disabled individuals. Passengers may miss

flights, face delays before navigating the time consuming airport security process,

and be forced to wait unreasonably while some, but not all passengers, are loaded

or unloaded at the segregated stops. (Exhibit C). According to Mr. Cushman,

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Michigan Flyer cannot provide this service and maintain their schedule, which

their customers depend on. (Exhibit C). These incidental harms cannot be

compensated by monetary damages, and accordingly are irreparable. As

providers of intercity public transportation, Michigan Flyer and AirRide are

already held to the highest and most stringent standards for accessibility for

individuals with disabilities. Defendants are asked for nothing more than an

accessible public bus stop for users of these inclusive and accessible

transportation providers. (Exhibit C). The current plan is a ridiculous,

impractical, and unreasonable attempt to fix a problem that, apparently,

Defendants do not take as seriously as Plaintiffs or the greater disability

community.

IV. EQUITABLE CONSIDERATIONS DEMONSTRATE THAT

AN INJUNCTION WOULD NOT CAUSE HARM TO

DEFENDANTS, AND WOULD BE IN THE PUBLIC GOOD.

When determining whether or not to issue a preliminary injunction, “courts

must balance the competing claims of injury and must consider the effect on each

party of the granting or withholding of the requested relief." Winter, 555 U.S. at

24. Courts have broad discretion when considering the equities of a claim.

McPherson, 119 F.3d at 459 (“weighing and balancing of the equities of a

particular case is overruled only in the rarest of cases.”) The key considerations

are whether the injunction will harm the defendant, or others, and whether issuing

21


the injunction would be in the public good. Neveux, 921 F. Supp. at 1570. Here,

Defendants will not be harmed by an order preventing implementation of

segregated bus stops, because for years Defendants operated single, all-inclusive

bus stops at International Arrivals without incident. It remains unclear why

Defendants disrupted the status quo in 2014, but since that time, it has been

individuals with disabilities who have continually suffered and faced exclusion

from this public airport.

a. Defendants Will Not be Harmed by a Temporary Restraining

Order.

It has been demonstrated that Plaintiffs stand to suffer great irreparable

harm in the absence of injunctive relief. However, Defendants do not stand to

suffer any material harm by the issuance of an injunction. Plaintiffs simply ask

the Court to prevent Defendants from implementing a plan that will effectively

segregate individuals with disabilities, and instead, order Defendants to

implement the relief requested in Plaintiffs’ original Motion for Preliminary

Injunction. (R. 16, Preliminary Injunction, pg. 1, PG ID # 431). This may mean

Defendants are forced to make minor adjustments to the configuration of the

GTC, but these inconveniences are nothing compared to the reality of exclusion

and stigmatization faced by Plaintiffs if they are forced to access DTW via

segregated bus stops.

b. The Public Interest Favors Enforcement of Civil Rights Statutes.

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A TRO preventing Defendants from violating Federal Law will advance

the public interest by enforcing Federal Law, which prohibits segregation of

individuals with disabilities. “[T]he public interest is served by enforcement of

anti-discrimination provisions of Title II of the ADA.” Heather K. v City of

Mallard, 887 F. Supp. 1249, 1266 (N.D. Iowa 1995). (discussing the fact that the

court had no difficulty in favorably determining the public interest where

Congress’s remedial intent for the ADA to ban discrimination against persons

with disabilities was at stake). To wit, Congress enacted the ADA “to provide a

clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination

against individuals with disabilities.” 42 U.S.C. § 12101(b)(1). In doing so,

Congress recognized that “discrimination against individuals with disabilities

persists in such critical areas as . . . public accommodations, . . . transportation, . .

. and access to public services;” and that “the continuing existence of unfair and

unnecessary discrimination and prejudice denies people with disabilities the

opportunity to compete on an equal basis and to pursue those opportunities for

which our free society is justifiably famous, and costs the United States billions

of dollars in unnecessary expenses resulting from dependency and

nonproductivity.” Id. § 12101(a)(3), (a)(8).

The public interest in effectuating Congress’ intent for this remedial

legislation is well-established, and it is in the public good that the very kind of

23


discrimination the ADA sought to ban, and that Defendants have engaged in, be

enjoined to protect Plaintiffs, those similarly situated, and the general public.

Segregating persons with disabilities, when an inclusive alternative is readily

available, is the exact antitheses of the purpose of the ADA.

Furthermore, preventing the implementation of segregated bus stops will

benefit the general public. Multiple bus stops will lead to delays and chaos at this

public airport.

V. PLAINTIFFS SHOULD NOT BE REQUIRED TO POST A

BOND.

Federal appellate courts construing Fed. R. Civ. P. 65 permit a trial court to

require no bond where the nonmoving party fails to demonstrate any injury.

“[T]he trial judge has wide discretion in the manner of requiring security and if

there is an absence of proof showing the likelihood of harm, certainly no bond is

necessary.” Cont’l Oil Co. v. Frontier Ref. Co., 338 F.2d 780, 782 (10th Cir.

1964); accord Doctor's Assocs. v. Stuart, 85 F.3d 975, 985 (2d Cir. 1996); see

also W. Va. Highlands Conservancy v. Island Creek Coal Co., 441 F.2d 232, 236

(4th Cir. 1971) (holding that a nominal bond of $100 was sufficient where

defendant failed to show it would suffer more than negligible harm as a result of

having to delay timber cutting until the issues raised in the litigation could be

decided).

24


Here, there is no indication that Defendants will suffer any cognizable

harm from the Court preventing them from implementing an archaic, illegal

policy at this public airport. Like in W. Va. Highlands Conservancy, any damage

suffered by Defendants will not go beyond a mere inconvenience. In fact,

considering Plaintiffs ask for nothing more than prevention of a proposed plan,

such an order will not inconvenience Defendants in any way. Said simply,

Defendants’ operations will continue as normal, while the parties work toward a

resolution that truly promotes inclusion and integration. Because Defendants will

not be harmed by the issuance of a temporary restraining order, Plaintiffs should

not be required to post a bond, or in the alternative, Plaintiffs should be required

to post no more than a nominal bond.

CONCLUSION

WHEREFORE, for all these reasons, Plaintiffs hereby request that this

Honorable Court issue an order preventing Defendants from implementing

segregated bus stops at DTW, and forcing individuals with disabilities to report

their disability to third-party transportation providers, and instead, ask this

Honorable Court to grant their earlier motion for a preliminary injunction

requiring a return to the status quo of an integrated and accessible bus stop.

Respectfully submitted,

NYMAN TURKISH PC


25


Jason M. Turkish, Michigan Bar #P76310

Ryan T. Kaiser, Michigan Bar #79491

20700 Civic Center Drive, Suite 115

Southfield, Michigan 48076

Phone: (248) 284-2480

Fax: (248) 262-5024

[email protected]

[email protected]

Co-Counsel for Plaintiffs

By: Melissa M. Nyman, CA Bar #293207

5800 Stanford Ranch Road, Suite 720

Rocklin, California 95765

Phone: (916) 218-4340

Fax: (916) 218-4341

[email protected]

Dated: March 8, 2016 Co-Counsel for Plaintiffs

26


CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

I hereby certify that the foregoing document was filed on March 8, 2016

using the Court’s ECF System which will generate notice to all counsel of record.


By: Jason M. Turkish, Michigan Bar #P76310

27


IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

SOUTHERN DIVISION

PAUL PALMER & DONNA ROSE, ) ) Plaintiffs, ) 2:15-cv-13567 ) v. ) HONORABLE ) VICTORIA A. ROBERTS DELTA AIRLINES INC. & WAYNE ) COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY ) ) Defendants. ) ________________________________________/

INDEX OF EXHIBITS

A. Proposed Regulations

B. Regulations Cover Letter

C. Declaration of Chad Cushman

D. WCAA Press Release

2:15-cv-13567-VAR-EAS Doc # 26-1 Filed 03/08/16 Pg 1 of 1 Pg ID 1132

Exhibit A

Proposed Regulations for March 14, 2016 Implementation


GROUND TRANSPORTATION REGULATIONS

FOR

DETROIT METROPOLITAN WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT

Effective March 14, 2016


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................................ 1

2. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH THESE REGULATIONS ................................................................. 1

3. AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE THESE REGULATIONS .................................................................... 2

4. CATEGORIES OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES ..................................................... 2

5. ADMINISTRATION .......................................................................................................................... 3

6. GENERAL RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL GROUND TRANSPORATION OPERATORS ............. 3

7. RESERVED / PRE-ARRANGED OPERATORS ............................................................................. 4

8. BUS OPERATORS .......................................................................................................................... 7

9. PUBLIC OPERATORS ..................................................................................................................... 9

10. CONCESSIONAIRES AND OTHER CONTRACTED OPERATORS ............................................ 10

11. COURTESY SHUTTLE OPERATORS .......................................................................................... 10

12. SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES ........................................................................................................ 11

13. ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ......................................................... 12

14. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS ........................................................ 13

15. AIRPORT CONCESSION DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE .................................. 13

16. MISCELLANEOUS ......................................................................................................................... 14

17. ISSUANCE OF THESE REGULATIONS ....................................................................................... 14

ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENT 1 RESERVED/PRE-ARRANGED OPERATOR ACCESS COUPON/PERMIT

(EXAMPLE) ATTACHMENT 2 BUS OPERATOR ACCESS COUPON/PERMIT (EXAMPLE) ATTACHMENT 3 TERMINAL ACCESS BADGE (EXAMPLE) ATTACHMENT 4 MCNAMARA TERMINAL GROUND TRANSPORTATION CENTER LAYOUT ATTACHMENT 5 MCNAMARA TERMINAL DOMESTIC ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING AREA ATTACHMENT 6 MCNAMARA TERMINAL INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING AREA ATTACHMENT 7 NORTH TERMINAL GROUND TRANSPORTATION CENTER LAYOUT ATTACHMENT 8 NORTH TERMINAL DOMESTIC/INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING

AREAS ATTACHMENT 9 STAGING AREAS FOR BUS OPERATORS ATTACHMENT 10 MCNAMARA TERMINAL GTC BUS OPERATOR LOCATIONS ATTACHMENT 11 MCNAMARA TERMINAL DEPARTURES LEVEL CURB BUS OPERATOR

LOCATIONS ATTACHMENT 12 NORTH TERMINAL GTC BUS OPERATOR LOCATIONS


1

1. PURPOSE

To establish a set of regulations for individuals and entities providing ground transportation services (“Ground Transportation Operators”) at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (the “Airport”), under, and as an extension of, those set forth in the Wayne County Airport Authority Airport Ordinance (the “Airport Ordinance”).

2. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH THESE REGULATIONS

The authority for Wayne County Airport Authority (the “Airport Authority”) Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) to issue these Regulations derives from and is guided by a combination of federal, state, and local sources of law and regulation. The following statements provide a non-exhaustive list of statutes and regulations which the CEO has considered in setting forth these regulations.

A. The Michigan Public Airport Authority Act, Public Act 90 – The Michigan Public Airport Authority Act, Public Act 90 of 2002 (“PA 90”), created the Airport Authority and generally vested the Airport Authority with exclusive operational jurisdiction of the Airport, and the authority to lease premises and facilities at the Airport and grant rights and privileges with respect thereto. Additionally, PA 90 specifically provides the Airport Authority certain enumerated duties and powers, including the following: i. “[T]he power and duty of planning, promoting, extending, maintaining, acquiring,

purchasing, constructing, improving, repairing, enlarging, and operating all airports and airport facilities under the operational jurisdiction of or owned by the authority.” MCL 259.116(1)(c); and

ii. The development of all aspects of the airport facilities, including, (i) “[t]he location of terminals, hangars, aids to air aviation, parking lots and structures, cargo facilities, and all other facilities and services necessary to serve passengers and other customers at the airport; (ii) [s]treet and highway access and egress with the objective of minimizing, to the extent practicable, traffic congestion on access routes in the vicinity of the airport.” MCL 259.116(1)(i).

And in order to meet these and other obligations, PA 90 provides the Airport Authority the authority to adopt and enforce rules, regulations, and ordinances as follows:

i. An authority may adopt and enforce in a court of competent jurisdiction of this state reasonable rules, regulations, and ordinances for the orderly, safe, efficient, and sanitary operation and use of airport facilities…under its operational jurisdiction. The authority may establish civil and criminal penalties for the violation of rules, regulations and ordinances authorized under this subdivision to the same extent as the local government that owns the airport.” MCL 259.116(1)(m).

ii. [A]n authority may appoint and vest with police powers airport law enforcement officers, guards, or police officers under this chapter. The law enforcement officers, guards, or police officers of the authority shall have the full police powers and the authority of peace officers within the areas over which the authority has operational jurisdiction, including, but not limited to, the prevention and detection of crime, the power to investigate and enforce the laws of this state, rules, regulations, and ordinances issued by the authority, and, to the extent permitted or required by federal law and regulations, requirements of federal law and regulations governing airport security. The officers


2

may issue summons, make arrests, and initiate criminal proceedings.” MCL 259.116(1)(p).

B. The Airport Ordinance – Under Section 6.1 of the Airport Ordinance, “[t]he CEO is authorized to formulate, propose, and enforce by administrative action, rules and regulations which are consistent with this Ordinance and which are necessary or useful for the following purposes …To provide for the safe, orderly, and equitable governance of Taxicab, Luxury Sedan, Limousine and Ground Transportation services.”

3. AUTHORITY TO ENFORCE THESE REGULATIONS

Airport Authority employees are hereby authorized to enforce these Regulations, which represent rules and regulations authorized by Section 6.1 of the Airport Ordinance. Because these Regulations represent “a rule, order or directive issued pursuant to [the Airport] Ordinance,” any violation of these Regulations constitutes a misdemeanor offense (Airport Ordinance Section 21.5). This authority is non-exclusive in nature and supplemental to all other enforcement and regulatory authority vested in the Airport Authority, its CEO, and its employees and agents.

4. CATEGORIES OF GROUND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

For purposes of regulating operators that provide ground transportation services at the Airport, the Airport Authority defines the categories of Ground Transportation Operators as follows:

A. Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator – “Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator” means any operator using a self-propelled motor vehicle to carry passengers for hire with a seating capacity of 15 passengers or fewer, including the driver. “Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator” includes, but is not limited to, the following: limousines, luxury sedans, taxicabs, vans, and transportation network company vehicles.

B. Bus Operator – “Bus Operator” means any operator utilizing a self-propelled motor vehicle used in the carrying of passengers for hire with a seating capacity of 16 passengers or more, including the driver, unless that operator is a Public Operator. “Bus Operator” includes, but is not limited to, buses operated by public-private partnerships and buses operated by private entities. Bus Operators can provide “Charter Service” or “Regularly Scheduled Service:”

a. A bus is providing Charter Service if it is not operating on a regular/fixed or published schedule. Typically, though not always, trip sales are limited to an exclusive group or organization, rather than any prospective passenger who wishes to purchase a trip.

b. A bus is providing Regularly Scheduled Service if it is operating on a regular/fixed or published schedule. This includes a bus that is providing additional capacity based on the operator’s regular/fixed or published schedule. Typically, though not always, any prospective passenger can purchase a trip on such a bus, and sales are not limited to an exclusive group or organization.

C. Public Operator – “Public Operator” means either a “municipal corporation” or “public transportation corporation,” as defined in Intergovernmental Contracts Between Municipal Corporations, MCL 124.1.


3

D. Concessionaire or Other Contracted Operator – “Concessionaire or Other Contracted Operator” means any concessionaire or other person or entity operating transportation services with which the Airport Authority has a relationship pursuant to a contract signed by the operator and the Airport Authority with respect to the transportation services.

E. Courtesy Shuttle Operator – A “Courtesy Shuttle Operator” means a transportation service between the Airport and a hotel, parking lot, or other off-Airport location that does not charge a fee for transportation services.

F. Special Event Services – At the request of persons or entities that have contracted with a service provider to transport a large passenger and trip volume within a defined period of time, the Airport Authority may grant Special Event Service status on a case-by-case basis and put a special transportation plan in place in order to reduce or eliminate congestion at the Airport while such service is operational.

5. ADMINISTRATION

A. The Airport Authority will designate pick-up and drop-off locations for Ground Transportation Operators at the Airport.

B. However, and notwithstanding anything in these Regulations to the contrary, when the Airport Authority and its ground transportation professionals determine that the Ground Transportation Operator shall pick up or drop off at any other location because of safety, efficiency, or congestion concerns, the Airport Authority and its representatives shall have the right, without prior notice, to direct the Ground Transportation Operator to drop off or pick up passengers at any location or locations at the Airport which the Airport Authority deems necessary or appropriate at that time.

C. Through these Regulations, the CEO hereby delegates to the Airport Authority’s Landside Department staff operational authority to manage operations and enforce these rules and regulations, supplemental to all authority already vested in the Landside Department and all other Airport Authority employees and agents.

6. GENERAL RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL GROUND TRANSPORATION OPERATORS

A. Drivers, employees, and agents of a Ground Transportation Operator shall at all times comply with any lawful direction or order from a police officer or Airport Authority representative when that officer or representative is guiding, directing, controlling or regulating traffic on the Airport roads, ramps, service drives, parking areas, public and private driveways, or other areas of the Airport. Violation of this provision is a violation of Section 18.3 of the Airport Ordinance and is a misdemeanor pursuant to Section 22.3 of the Airport Ordinance.

B. Drivers, employees, and agents of the Ground Transportation Operator shall at all times comply with any lawful direction or order from a police officer or Airport Authority representative, regardless of whether this direction or order pertains to vehicular movement.

C. Drivers, employees, and agents of the Ground Transportation Operator shall not fail or refuse to comply with any traffic light, sign, mechanical or electrical signal,


4

or pavement marking unless directed otherwise by a police officer or Airport Authority representative. Violation of this provision is a violation of Section 18.4 of the Airport Ordinance and is a misdemeanor pursuant to Section 22.3 of the Airport Ordinance.

D. Ground Transportation Operators shall provide professional, competent, and

courteous personnel to perform all transportation services – and activities related to transportation services – which occur at the Airport, and drivers shall be experienced, trained, and licensed such that they properly and safely maneuver into, around, and out of the Airport and the pick-up and drop off locations designated for such transportation services.

E. Ground Transportation Operators shall maintain insurance in amounts required by

the State of Michigan that covers all operations or activities conducted by it, its employees, and its agents while at the Airport. It is the sole responsibility of a Ground Transportation Operator to ensure that it and its drivers and other agents and employees maintain insurance in required types and amounts.

F. Each driver must maintain the type of license mandated by the State of Michigan – for example, chauffer’s license or Commercial Driver’s License – for the type or types of operations the driver will conduct at the Airport. It is the sole responsibility of a Ground Transportation Operator to ensure that its drivers and other agents and employees maintain licenses and certifications as required.

G. All Ground Transportation Operators must maintain the organizational and administrative capacity to carry out all their duties and responsibilities under these Regulations, and all other applicable laws and regulations.

H. A Ground Transportation Operator may not erect or display any signs, posters or advertising devices at the Airport without the prior written approval of the CEO, or his or her designee. Violation of this provision is a violation of Section 6.8 of the Airport Ordinance and is a misdemeanor.

I. In accordance with the Airport Ordinance, a Ground Transportation Operator, or any employee, agent, or representative thereof, may not take still, motion or sound pictures of or at the Airport for commercial purposes without a permit to do so from the Airport Authority’s Chief Executive Officer or his or her designee.

J. Any driver, manager, owner, or employee of a Ground Transportation Operator that performs services for the Ground Transportation Operator or the Ground Transportation Operator’s customers on the Airport at an “on-airport facility” as defined in 49 CFR 23.3 must possess and display a current and valid airport identification badge issued by the Airport Authority. If the driver, manager, owner, or employee does not have a current and valid airport identification badge issued by the Airport Authority, the Airport Authority may deem such individual as trespassing

7. RESERVED / PRE-ARRANGED OPERATORS

A. Locations – The Airport Authority manages two landside locations for Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operators – the McNamara Terminal Ground Transportation Center (“GTC”) and the North Terminal GTC.


5

B. Operating Fees –

a. Coupons/Permits for operating at the Airport can be purchased by credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express only) or company check/money order. Cash will not be accepted.

b. The vehicle-for-hire access fee is $10.00 per trip for a single coupon, or a book of 10 coupons can be purchased for $100.00.

C. Hours of Operation for Coupon/Permit Sales – Seven days a week, from 8:00 A.M. through 10:00 P.M., except for 2:30 through 3:00 P.M.

D. General Operating Procedures

a. Each driver for a Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator is required to have a

completed Airport Authority Commercial Vehicle Access Coupon/Permit (See Attachment 1) for admittance into the vehicle staging lot of a GTC.

b. For flights due to arrive in more than 15 minutes, Landside Services will advise the driver when the flight is due to arrive, and direct the driver to leave the GTC and return not more than 15 minutes before that time. If the flight is due to arrive within 15 minutes, a $10.00 Coupon/Permit fee will be collected if the Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator has not pre-purchased a Coupon/Permit and is not cashing in that pre-purchased Coupon/Permit.

c. An Airport Authority Landside Services Agent will review the driver’s completed Coupon/Permit.

d. After review and approval of the driver’s Coupon/Permit, the Landside Services Agent will include the date and GTC entry time on the Coupon/Permit, along with badge number.

e. Drivers with an incomplete or invalid Coupon/Permit are deemed to be trespassing and will be asked to leave the Airport immediately.

f. All Permits/Coupons must contain the Reserved/Pre-Arranged passenger’s flight number. The Airport Authority may verify the status of the passenger’s flight.

g. Drivers requesting terminal access to meet their passenger will be supplied a terminal access identification pass (see Attachment 3), which must be worn by the driver at all times. The driver may then proceed to baggage claim or international arrivals and wait in the appropriate waiting area. The driver will hold a sign displaying the name of the passenger and/or the passenger’s company, and assist their passenger(s) upon arrival. If the driver does not need terminal access, the driver will be directed to wait for their customer the in vehicle staging lot of the GTC.

h. Drivers in the terminal without a terminal access identification pass are considered to be soliciting. Airport police may be notified for removal and potential prosecution of unauthorized drivers.

i. Drivers for Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operators are prohibited from parking in vehicle chutes designated for concessionaire luxury sedan or metered taxi services.


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E. McNamara Terminal GTC Procedures and Locations a. To meet a passenger at the Airport’s McNamara Terminal GTC, the driver must

first check in with an Airport Authority Landside Ground Transportation Agent at the booth located in the vehicle staging lot (See Attachment 4).

b. The vehicle staging lot for the McNamara Terminal is located on the fourth level of the McNamara Parking Structure (See Attachment 4).

c. A Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator’s vehicle is allowed to remain in the vehicle staging lot for a maximum of 30 minutes.

d. Within the McNamara Terminal baggage claim area, the Airport Authority will provide a roped off area with a sign designating it as only for drivers for Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operators, also known as the queuing area.

e. For domestic arrivals, the queuing area will be near Doorway #3 at the baggage claim level (See Attachment 5).

f. For international arrivals, the queuing area will be located directly outside of the security door on the international arrivals level (See Attachment 6).

g. Airport Authority Landside Services reserves the right to manage the size or location of a queuing area based upon expected passenger/customer arrivals and to accommodate the needs of the traveling public.

h. The Airport Authority may display signs directing the traveling public to the queuing area, including an overhead sign inside the security area.

i. The Airport Authority may display signs in the GTC on level six and at the bottom of the escalator on level four directing the traveling public to the vehicle staging lot.

F. North Terminal GTC Procedures and Locations a. To meet a passenger at the Airport’s North Terminal GTC or in the North

Terminal, the driver must first check in at the Landside Services Check-In Booth located on Level 1 in the North Terminal GTC’s Reserved/ Pre-Arranged Area (See Attachment 7).

b. The vehicle staging lot for the North Terminal is located on Level 1 of the Big Blue Parking Structure (See Attachment 7).

c. A Reserved/Pre-Arranged Operator’s vehicle is allowed to remain in the vehicle staging lot for a maximum of 30 minutes.

d. Within the North Terminal Baggage claim area(s), the Airport Authority may provide three 3 roped off area(s) – known as the International Arrivals, South, and North Queuing areas – with signage designating them as only for drivers meeting “pre-arranged commercial transportation” (See Attachment 8).

e. Airport Authority Landside Services reserves the right to manage the size or location of a queuing area based upon expected passenger/customer arrivals and to accommodate the needs of the traveling public.

f. The Airport Authority may display signs directing the traveling public to the queuing area, including an overhead sign inside the security area.

g. To access the Baggage Claim Area(s) from the GTC, drivers must utilize the pedestrian bridge on Level 4 of the GTC. Drivers are not allowed to cross the street on Level 1.


7

G. Westin Hotel Procedures and Locations a. To meet a passenger at the Westin Hotel, the driver must first check in with an

Airport Authority Landside Ground Transportation Agent at the booth located in the McNamara Terminal GTC vehicle staging lot (See Attachment 4).

b. Drivers must present a completed Airport Authority Coupon/Permit to the Landside Services Agent prior to the Westin pick-up. An Airport Authority Landside Services Agent will time stamp the coupon and return it to the driver. The driver will proceed to the Westin Hotel. (Note: hotel guests might not have flight numbers)

c. There is no dedicated pick up zone at the Westin entrance. Drivers must stop at an open curb-side area and may only actively load their vehicle.

d. Drivers must stay with their vehicle at all times with company/customer sign, assist the passenger with their baggage, and then exit the airport.

8. BUS OPERATORS

A. Locations – The Airport Authority provides three landside locations for Bus Operators based on the type of operator and the service being performed: McNamara Terminal GTC, North Terminal GTC, and McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb.

B. Operating Fees –

a. Coupons/Permits for operating at the Airport can be purchased by credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express only) or company check/money order. Cash will not be accepted.

b. The vehicle-for-hire access fee is $30.00 per trip for a single coupon, or Bus Operators can establish a pre-pay account, which allows the operator to add money to the account at any time, and through which its drivers can purchase Coupons/Permits. A Permit fee of $30.00 will then be deducted from this account for each Coupon/Permit purchased by a driver.

C. Hours of Operation for Coupon/Permit Sales – Seven days a week, from 8:00 A.M. through 10:00 P.M., except for 2:30 through 3:00 P.M.

D. General Operating Procedures a. The Airport Authority notes – and a Bus Operator acknowledges through its

provision of services at the Airport – that the Airport is a bus stop, like at a bus route sign on a post on the side of the road, and not a bus depot, like Detroit’s Rosa Parks Transit Center or Ann Arbor’s Blake Transit Center. Consequently, a bus driver may not take his or her break when the bus stops at the Airport, buses may not dwell and wait for passengers, and bus drivers shall not take any other actions that are more typical of those one would take at a bus depot rather than a bus stop.

b. Drivers are required to have a valid Coupon/Permit for admittance into a GTC. An Airport Authority Landside Services Agent will review the driver’s Coupon/Permit for validity and record the Coupon/Permit number.


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c. Drivers must place their valid Coupon/Permit in the lower right hand corner of the windshield on their motor coach. Drivers with an incomplete Coupon/Permit will be asked to leave the Airport premises immediately.

d. Buses must actively load or unload only. No dwelling or waiting for passengers will be allowed at a bus pick-up or drop-off location.

e. The Airport Authority (i) desires to avoid scenarios in which a Bus Operator does not have at least one space available to it at a landside location; (ii) has determined, in its professional judgment, that a circumstance under which buses under shared management or ownership occupy two or more spots at a landside location could result in no spots remaining for other Bus Operators; (iii) finds that when Bus Operators comply with its active loading and unloading policy that the existing landside locations provide sufficient availability for existing and expected bus services; and (iv) finds that entities with shared management or ownership should be able stagger bus times, slow down buses on their way to the airport, and use other dispatch, operations, and communications techniques and technologies to keep from having two or more buses in a GTC or at the McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb at a time. Consequently, a Bus Operator, and any entity with which it has shared management or ownership, may not have more than one bus in the McNamara Terminal GTC, the North Terminal GTC, or the McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb at any time, without the express written consent of the Airport Authority, and any bus beyond the one currently occupying the facility must either circle around or wait at the staging area or areas designated by the Airport Authority until the first occupying bus departs.

f. The North and South Staging Lots may be used for staging until passengers are ready for pick up (See Attachment 9).

g. Buses will be asked to relocate to one of the North or South Staging Lots, and subsequently return, if passengers are not ready to be picked up at a bus pick-up location.

h. Drivers are not to leave their vehicles to pick up passengers in the terminal or for any other reason, except to use the direct dial telephone to passenger assistance services located near the bus pick-up location or to assist with the active loading or unloading of the vehicle.

E. McNamara Terminal Procedures and Locations a. After gaining admittance to the GTC, drivers will stop at the Landside Services

booth shown on Attachment 10 upon entering the McNamara GTC to check-in with the Landside Services Agent.

b. Passenger Pick-Up Location i. Regularly Scheduled Service – A bus engaged in Regularly Scheduled

Service shall pick up passengers at either of the two Bus Operator spots in the GTC, as shown on Attachment 10.

ii. Charter Service – A bus engaged in Charter Service shall pick up passengers at either of the two Bus Operator spots in the GTC, as shown on Attachment 10.

c. Passenger Drop-Off Location i. Regularly Scheduled Service – A bus engaged in Regularly Scheduled

Service shall drop off passengers at either of the two Bus Operator spots in the GTC, as shown on Attachment 10.


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ii. Charter Service – A bus engaged in Charter Service shall drop off passengers at either of the two McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb spots, as shown on Attachment 11.

F. North Terminal Procedures and Locations

a. Passenger Pick-Up Location

i. Regularly Scheduled Service – A bus engaged in Regularly Scheduled Service shall pick up passengers at Bay 1 or 2 of West access drive of the North Terminal GTC, except for the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (“SMART”), all as shown on Attachment 12.

ii. Charter Service – A bus engaged in Charter Service shall pick up passengers at one of the numbered Bays 2, 3, 8, or 9, of the West access drive of the North Terminal GTC, as shown on Attachment 12.

b. Passenger Drop-Off Location i. Regularly Scheduled Service – A bus engaged in Regularly Scheduled

Service shall drop off passengers at Bay 1 or 2 of West access drive of the North Terminal GTC, except for SMART, all as shown on Attachment 12.

ii. Charter Service – A bus engaged in Charter Service shall drop off passengers at one of the numbered Bays 2, 3, 8, or 9, of the West access drive of the North Terminal GTC, as shown on Attachment 12.

9. PUBLIC OPERATORS

A. Introduction – The Airport Authority recognizes that public operators of ground transportation are governmental or nonprofit entities that do not derive a profit from the operation of their ground transportation services, but instead are entities created or enabled under state law to provide a service of public, rather than private, benefit. The Airport Authority determines it to be in its best interests to provide favorable treatment to these operators, including a waiver of the industry standard access fees that it charges to other operators and operations more private in nature.

The Airport Authority considers its grant of access to a Public Operator to be an intergovernmental contract under Intergovernmental Contracts Between Municipal Corporations (MCL 124.1., et seq.). Among other consideration for this intergovernmental contract, the Public Operator obtains access to the Airport for its operations and the Airport Authority obtains, through the Public Operator, another ground transportation operation for its customers.

B. Eligibility – The Airport Authority will consider a Ground Transportation Operator a “Public Operator” if it is either a “municipal corporation” or “public transportation corporation,” as defined in Intergovernmental Contracts Between Municipal Corporations, MCL 124.1. Under this statute: a. A “municipal corporation” means a county, charter county, county road

commission, township, charter township, city, village, school district, intermediate school district, community college district, metropolitan district, court district, public authority, or drainage district as defined in the drain code of 1956, Act No. 40 of the Public Acts of 1956, being sections 280.1 to 280.630


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of the Michigan Compiled Laws, or any other local governmental authority or local agency with power to enter into contractual undertakings; and

b. A “public transportation corporation” means a nonprofit corporation organized pursuant to the nonprofit corporation act, Act No. 162 of the Public Acts of 1982, being sections 450.2101 to 450.3192 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, to which 1 of the following applies:

i. The primary purpose of the nonprofit corporation is providing public transportation services.

ii. The nonprofit corporation receives funding from the specialized services assistance program under section 10e of Act No. 51 of the Public Acts of 1951, being section 247.660e of the Michigan Compiled Laws.

C. Access Fee Waiver – If a Ground Transportation Operator is a Public Operator and is directly providing services to its passengers with a vehicle that it owns or leases – and not through a private, for-profit contractor – then it shall be exempt from paying the standard airport access fee for the type of service it provides.

D. Paratransit Operations – If the Public Operator is providing paratransit services as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (the “ADA”), the paratransit vehicle may pick up or drop off the paratransit eligible passenger(s) and passenger caregiver(s) at the same locations as privately-owned vehicles.

E. Compliance with Other Regulations – If a Public Operator is providing services

with a vehicle with a seating capacity of 15 passengers or fewer, including the driver, then it shall follow all regulations relating to Reserved/Pre-Arranged transportation set forth in Section 7 above. If a Public Operator is providing services with a vehicle with a seating capacity of 16 passengers or greater, including the driver, then it shall follow all regulations relating to Bus Operators set forth in Section 8 above.

10. CONCESSIONAIRES AND OTHER CONTRACTED OPERATORS

The operations of concessionaires and other Ground Transportation Operators with which the Airport Authority has a contracted relationship signed by the service operator and the Airport Authority with respect to the transportation services will be governed by that contract or those contracts, as the case may be, in addition to the Airport Ordinance and all other applicable federal, state, and local rules, regulations, and statutes.

11. COURTESY SHUTTLE OPERATORS

Transportation services operating between the Airport and a hotel, parking lot, or other off-Airport location that do not charge a fee for transportation services shall be subject to the general requirements set forth in Section 6 of these Regulations, as well as the Airport Ordinance and all other applicable federal, state, and local rules, regulations, and statutes. A Courtesy Shuttle Operator may not dwell and shall only actively load and unload. Courtesy Shuttle Operators may use the spaces shown in Attachments 4 and 7.


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12. SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES

A. At the request of persons or entities that have contracted with a Ground Transportation Operator to transport a large passenger volume within a defined period of time, the Airport Authority, may on a case by case basis with these persons or entities, put a transportation plan in place in order to reduce or eliminate the congestion which the Airport Authority expects would or could result from such a service. In exercising its sole and absolute discretion to grant or deny Special Event Service status, the Airport Authority may consider, among other factors, the time of year, expected passenger volume for other services, the frequency of and any gaps in the proposed service, and duration of the event giving rise to the request.

B. Eligibility: In order to be granted status as a Special Event Service, the person or entity seeking such status must provide the following, to the satisfaction of the Airport Authority’s Landside Department, at least 14 days prior to the service commencing: a. Written confirmation that person or entity is contracting directly with a Ground

Transportation Operator to provide the service and that the vehicles will be used exclusively for the event’s attendees, chaperones, etc. Specifically within this confirmation, the person or entity must confirm that members of the general public will not be sharing the vehicles with the attendees, chaperones, etc.

b. A copy of the entire contract – including addenda, work or task orders, and any other documents created for or under the contract – between the person or entity seeking special event status and the Ground Transportation Operator that sets forth the trip times and number of trips contracted for. As the Airport Authority has in the past granted special event status to persons or entities which operated fewer actual vehicle trips than represented to the Airport Authority in seeking Special Event Status, the contract and resultant firm times and number of trips is necessary for Airport Authority ground transportation staff to plan ahead from an operational perspective.

c. Written confirmation that the vehicles will have a placard in the window, along with a Coupon/Permit in the lower right area of the windshield for pick-ups, identifying each vehicle as affiliated with the special event.

C. The Airport Authority reserves the right to deny or revoke special event status if: (i) the person or entity seeking, or which sought, such status is not complying with these Regulations, (ii) a Ground Transportation Operator hired by the person or entity is not complying with these Regulations, or (iii) the actual nature of the service does not match what the person or entity seeking Special Event Service status represented when it sought that treatment.


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13. ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

A. All Ground Transportation Operators must at all times operate their services in compliance with the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and any other statutes or regulations relating to the disability community.

B. As a general matter, the Airport ensures that its facilities are accessible for passengers of all Ground Transportation Operators. The Airport Authority recognizes, however, that it and Ground Transportation Operators should develop procedures to accommodate requests from individuals with disabilities that may necessitate a reasonable modification to the pick-up and drop-off policy for the standard locations set by the Airport Authority above. Consequently, all Ground Transportation Operators must, upon request for accommodation from an individual with a disability, modify its service to provide an additional pick-up or drop-off option as follows: a. McNamara Terminal Drop-offs – The Ground Transportation Operator must

first complete its passenger drop-off at its standard location for all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation, after which the Ground Transportation Operator must drop off the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) at the McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb, as shown on Attachment 11.

b. McNamara Terminal Pick-ups - The Ground Transportation Operator must pick up the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) outside of Door 402 of the McNamara Terminal GTC, as shown on Attachment 10.

i. If the location outside of Door 402 is South of the Ground Transportation Operator’s standard pick-up location, the Ground Transportation Operator must first complete its passenger pick-up at its standard location for all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation, and then proceed to the Door 402 location only to pick up the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation (and any family members or caretakers).

ii. If the location outside of Door 402 is North of the Ground Transportation Operator’s standard pick-up location, the Ground Transportation Operator must only pick up the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation (and any family members or caretakers) at this location, and then proceed to the Ground Transportation Operator’s standard pick-up location.

c. North Terminal Drop-offs - The Ground Transportation Operator must first complete its passenger drop-off at its standard location for any and all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation, after which the Ground Transportation Operator must drop off the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) at North Terminal GTC Bay 5, as shown on Attachment 12.

d. North Terminal Pick-ups – The Ground Transportation Operator must first complete its passenger pick-up at its standard location for any and all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a


13

reasonable accommodation, after which the Ground Transportation Operator must pick up the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) at North Terminal GTC Bay 5, as shown on Attachment 12.

Any Ground Transportation Operator that does not follow the above accommodation procedure – by, among other things, failing to provide the accommodation to an individual with a disability who has requested an accommodation (or any of his/her family members or caretakers); or by providing the accommodation to an individual without a disability other than family member or caretaker of an individual with a disability who has requested an accommodation – will be in violation of these Regulations and this Section 13.

C. The Airport Authority takes its obligations to the disability community seriously, and

expects the Ground Transportation Operators to which it grants Airport access to do the same. Failure to comply with this Section 13 is a serious offense and may result in a misdemeanor citation or revocation of Airport access privileges.

D. Upon receiving a request for accommodation from an individual with a disability:

a. The Ground Transportation Operator must inform its customer of the wheelchair and mobility assistance provided by the airlines and inquire whether the customer has already arranged for wheelchair or other mobility assistance services with his or her airline.

b. If the customer has not already arranged for such assistance, the Ground Transportation Operator must either (i) provide the customer with the appropriate airline accessibility contact information in order to make a request for wheelchair or other mobility assistance or (ii) contact the airline on the customer’s behalf to arrange for such assistance.

Ground Transportation Operators are responsible for actively maintaining current wheelchair or other mobility assistance contact lists for all airlines operating out of the Airport.

14. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS

All Ground Transportation Operators will comply with any and all rules and regulations adopted by the Airport Authority with respect to use of the Airport. It will also comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

15. AIRPORT CONCESSION DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

If a Ground Transportation Operator is a for-profit business and uses a booth or a counter or other “on-airport facility” that renders it “located on the airport” under 49 CFR 23.3, then the Ground Transportation Operator is providing a “concession” under 49 CFR 23.3 and shall not provide ground transportation services at the Airport unless it either (i) no longer uses the on-airport facility that renders it a concessionaire or (ii) enters into a separate concession agreement with the Airport Authority which complies with 49 CFR 23’s Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise requirements.


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16. MISCELLANEOUS

A. The Airport Authority reserves its sole and absolute right, based on its professional judgment, to make adjustments to these Regulations, at any given time, and without any requirement to give notice to any party, including Ground Transportation Operators.

B. Unless otherwise explicitly provided for in these Regulations, the CEO or his or her designee may take all actions under these Regulations on behalf of the Airport Authority.

C. As a condition of access to the Airport, Ground Transportation Operators shall not be or become in arrears to the Airport Authority upon any contract, debt, or any other financial obligation to the Airport Authority.

D. If any Affiliate of a Ground Transportation Operator takes any action, which, if done

by the Ground Transportation Operator itself, would constitute a violation of these Regulations, the action may likewise be deemed a violation by that Ground Transportation Operator. "Affiliate" is a parent, subsidiary or other company controlling, controlled by or in common control with the Ground Transportation Operator.

E. The Airport Authority may amend or revise these Regulations at any time, with or

without notice to Ground Transportation Operators. F. If any part of these Regulations is declared unenforceable or invalid, the remainder

will continue to be valid and enforceable.

17. ISSUANCE OF THESE REGULATIONS

These regulations are hereby issued March 14, 2016, as rules and regulations authorized by Section 6.1 of the Airport Ordinance, and as “a rule, order or directive issued pursuant to [the Airport] Ordinance” for purposes of Section 21.5 of the Airport Ordinance.

___________________________________ THOMAS J. NAUGHTION CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY


ATTACHMENT 1

RESERVED/PRE-ARRANGED OPERATOR ACCESS COUPON/PERMIT (EXAMPLE)


ATTACHMENT 2

BUS OPERATOR ACCESS COUPON/PERMIT (EXAMPLE)


ATTACHMENT 3

TERMINAL ACCESS BADGE (EXAMPLE)

(Front)

(Rear)


ATTACHMENT 4

MCNAMARA TERMINAL GROUND TRANSPORTATION CENTER LAYOUT


ATTACHMENT 5

MCNAMARA TERMINAL DOMESTIC ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING AREA


ATTACHMENT 6

MCNAMARA TERMINAL INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING AREA


ATTACHMENT 7

NORTH TERMINAL GROUND TRANSPORTATION CENTER LAYOUT


ATTACHMENT 8

NORTH TERMINAL DOMESTIC/INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS DRIVER QUEUING AREAS


ATTACHMENT 9

STAGING AREAS FOR BUS OPERATORS


ATTACHMENT 10

MCNAMARA TERMINAL GTC BUS OPERATOR LOCATIONS


ATTACHMENT 11

MCNAMARA TERMINAL DEPARTURES LEVEL CURB BUS OPERATOR LOCATIONS


ATTACHMENT 12

NORTH TERMINAL GTC BUS OPERATOR LOCATIONS


Exhibit B

Ground Transportation Cover Letter


Exhibit C

Affidavit of Chad Cushman


1

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

SOUTHERN DIVISION

PAUL PALMER & DONNA ROSE, ) ) Plaintiffs, ) 2:15-cv-13567 ) v. ) HONORABLE ) VICTORIA A. ROBERTS DELTA AIRLINES INC. & WAYNE ) COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY ) ) Defendants. ) ________________________________________/

DECLARATION OF CHAD CUSHMAN

STATE OF MICHIGAN ) )SS. COUNTY OF INGHAM )

CHAD CUSHMAN, having first been duly sworn, states:

1. The information contained in this affidavit is based on my personal knowledge,

except where otherwise stated, and I am competent and able to testify regarding the

matters contained herein.

2. I am a resident of Lansing, Michigan.

3. I am the Vice President of Indian Trails, Inc., a motorcoach carrier with over 100

years of experience in public transportation in Michigan.

4. In my capacity as Vice President of Indian Trails, I run the day-to-day operations of

the company, as well as oversee the day-to-day operations of Michigan Flyer LLC, a

company owned by Indian Trails in partnership with Okemos Travel.


2

5. Michigan Flyer provides intercity public transportation service from East Lansing, MI

to Detroit Metro Airport (“DTW”).

6. Michigan Flyer buses provide service for AirRide, an intercity public transportation

service, which brings passengers from Ann Arbor, MI to DTW as part of a

partnership with the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority.

7. As providers of intercity public transportation, Federal Law requires Michigan Flyer

and AirRide buses to be fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. Every

Michigan Flyer and AirRide bus is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities,

including wheelchair lifts.

8. Michigan Flyer and AirRide were among the Transportation Providers moved from

International Arrivals to the Ground Transportation Center (“GTC”) in the Fall of

2014.

9. Before the Fall, 2014 move, public transportation providers boarded at a single,

integrated bus stop at International Arrivals for approximately five years, during

which the Wayne County Airport Authority (“WCAA”) and Delta Air Lines, Inc.

never questioned the safety of the stop.

10. Michigan Flyer previously operated its service out of the GTC approximately five

years ago, until the WCAA relocated the service to International Arrivals following

concerns from the then Chairwoman of the Wayne County Airport Authority Board

over concerns for frigid temperatures at the GTC.

11. Michigan Flyer was involved in a separate lawsuit alleging the current bus stop is

inaccessible, which was settled by the parties therein. Harris et al. v. Wayne County

Airport Authority, No. 14-13630.


3

12. As part of the settlement between the parties in that case, the WCAA is now required

to allow public transportation providers to display signage in the Ground

Transportation Center in order to ensure that disabled travelers and those who assist

them can easily locate their transportation provider.

13. When Michigan Flyer began displaying signage in accordance with that settlement,

the WCAA charged Michigan Flyer with a criminal misdemeanor for allegedly

illegally displaying signage.

14. The criminal case pended for approximately one year, marred by delays and

adjournments, until the frivolous claim was eventually voluntarily dismissed by the

prosecutor.

15. On February 25, 2016, I was informed by the WCAA that on March 14, 2016, it will

be implementing regulations, which will create separate bus stops for use by

individuals with disabilities, only upon specific request to their transportation

provider.

16. This notice directed that all comments and objections to the proposed regulation must

be received no later than 4:30 PM EST on March 4, 2016.

17. I view the time allotted for comment and implementation of the new regulations to be

fundamentally insufficient to ensure the proposal will actually be effective, and to

ensure bus operators will be able to comply with its terms.

18. To my knowledge, and according to the Detroit Free Press, neither the WCAA nor

Delta Air Lines, Inc. has published this information publicly, on its website, or

otherwise. (Attachment 1, Detroit Free Press Article).


4

19. With the failure of the WCAA and Delta to publish the proposed regulations,

Michigan Flyer took it upon itself to publish the regulations to our customers, asking

for them to respond to Michigan Flyer, as well as WCAA officials with their

concerns.

20. Since publication, Michigan Flyer has received over 300 complaints expressing

concern for the plan to provide a segregated bus stop for individuals with disabilities.

(Attachment 2) (Redacted to protect the personal information of our customers).

21. The limited notice prior to implementation of these regulations will make it

practically impossible for Michigan Flyer or AirRide to comply with the separate bus

stop requirement.

22. Customers will be unduly and unreasonably delayed due to the need for Michigan

Flyer and AirRide buses to use two bus stops, instead of being allowed to use a

single, reasonable, accessible bus stop for all of our customers.

23. Furthermore, as a provider of intercity public transportation, Michigan Flyer is

prohibited from operating a system “institutionalizing disability-based distinctions in

the quality of service.” 49 C.F.R. § 37.207; 63 Fed. Reg. 51676 (“the Department

believes the backbone of intercity service must consist of fully accessible,

nondiscriminatory everyday service if the purposes of the ADA are to be

fulfilled…”). I will not be able to operate Michigan Flyer in compliance with Federal

Law while following WCAA’s new regulations and thus I will not instruct our drivers

to service segregated stops.


5

24. The WCAA already poses strict boarding and entry standards on transportation

providers at DTW, and in particular, public transportation providers, which will now

be difficult to comply with the implementation of at least three different bus stops.

25. Separate bus stops for individuals with disabilities is an unknown concept in the

transportation community.

26. Michigan Flyer will not and cannot elicit whether or not our customers have a

disability and need to use the alternative bus stops proposed by the WCAA.

27. Michigan Flyer specifically objects to the plan proposed by the WCAA, which would

cause our customers with disabilities to be unfairly singled out, and subjected to

ridicule for the delays the WCAA’s unreasonable plan will cause.

28. Customers arriving at DTW will have no way of knowing of the separate bus stop,

and will have no way of contacting Michigan Flyer to request a pick-up at the

segregated bus stop.

29. Quite simply, the plan will lead to delays, customers potentially missing flights,

customers missing their buses, fundamentally altering the nature of our service and

causing an undue burden for a business that is at the forefront of inclusion of

individuals with disabilities.

(Rest of page intentionally left blank)


FURTHER AFFIANT SAYETH NqT.

Subscribed and sworn to before me this

?-th day of March ,2016

- USAC.GINDEHSKEttotary puOtic Stale of iiilicfiigan

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Notary Public


Attachment 1

Detroit Free Press Article


Attachment 2

Customer Emails


Michigan Flyer-AirRide Passenger Responses to WCAA’s Proposed New Ground Transport Regulations

(received 3/4/2016 - 3/6/2015)

Subject: Michigan Flyer at DTW for the underrepresented From: Florencia Manon Colella <[email protected]> Date: Sun, Mar 06, 2016 10:57 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Please allow us, non disabled passengers that do not have a car, access to a public service that is as convenient as having a car, for the sake of human dignity. I am an international student at MSU. If there's any more information I can provide you with, please let me know. Regards, Florencia Manon Colella Arg. +54 9 113-196-5275 USA +1 517-303-1798 Subject: Michigan Flyer new dropoff site(s) From: Randy Schaetzl <[email protected]> Date: Sun, Mar 06, 2016 9:38 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] I'd like to express my displeasure with the new plans to require that the Flyer make two stops at the DTW airport. Are you trying to KILL the bus? It sure seems that way. I MUCH preferred it when the Michigan Flyer loaded and unloaded Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of the McNamara Terminal. This was unquestionably a safe, convenient, and accessible dropoff for ALL passengers—including seniors and people with disabilities. There was never a safety incident. nor could I imagine there ever being one. I was extremely disappointed when, about 18 months ago, DTW moved the Flyer pickup stop to the furthest possible location away from the McNamara Terminal—at the far south end of the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in the parking garage. Waiting there is terrible, and makes me feel like I am in a third world airport.


I vehemently oppose the proposed new regulations that would potentially require each Flyer bus to make two stops instead of one at both DTW terminals. Please do not change to this new plan. Even better, go back to what it was initially. I support mass transportation, do you? Thank you for listening. All the best, Randall Schaetzl Professor Department of Geography 673 Auditorium Rd, Rm 128 Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824-1117 Phone: 517-353-7726 Fax: 517-432-1671 Subject: New regulations are discriminatory, dangerous, and inconvenient! From: Deb Barantchouk <[email protected]> Date: Sun, Mar 06, 2016 9:14 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Violates the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Forces passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shifts to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially doubles the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in passengers reaching their destination on time Regards, Deb Barantchouk


Subject: Michigan Flyer From: "Cindy Kline" <[email protected]> Date: Sun, Mar 06, 2016 5:59 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Sir, I am writing as a customer of Michigan Flyer. I received an email from said company concerning some changes you plan to make to their service effective March 14, 2016. I would like to share my displeasure at your proposed future changes, as well as the change you made to their service at Detroit Metro 18 months ago. Their drop-off spot at the International terminal was convenient for all passengers, those with and without disabilities. The few times I used their service back then, they were quick and efficient and at no time did they interfere with any other traffic. Their current spot is not convenient for anyone, especially those with disabilities. I have read about your proposed solution to this and it’s ludicrous, and unnecessary. I hope you will change your mind and do the right thing. Cindy Kline Subject: Mi Flyer - DTW Discrimination Policy From: Mary Jane Graesser <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 11:01 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sirs and Madam: As a frequent rider of the Michigan Flyer, I am puzzled by this change in regulations for boarding and exiting the bus by regular and disabled passengers. Disability is difficult enough without those whom we depend upon to make our lives tolerable putting obstacles in our way. 18 months ago, DTW provided a comfortable and easily accessible place. Within that period of time. we have been directed to a dangerous and awkward waiting and drop-off area. Why did that happen? Adding an additional egress and ingress for the disabled, causes them to be pointed out and derided. This is not helpful. We have come a long way to eliminating discrimination. Having to identify myself as disabled and use a segregated bus stop feels like i’m back in Selma, Alabama in 1965. Is DTW going to ask me to use a segregated drinking fountain next or would you rather I just sit at the back of the bus? Please end your


discriminatory policy and allow the Michigan Flyer to resume dropping on/off passengers at a single stop at the International Arrivals curb. Sincerely yours, Mary Jane Graesser Subject: DTW violates the ADA From: Laura Ramm <[email protected]> Date: Sun, Mar 06, 2016 6:26 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, How can you allow the DTW McNamara Terminal's Michigan Flyer bus stop change to continue in this way? It clearly violates the ADA! That one reason alone is enough to stop this terminal location change. Among our many concerns about the new regulations are that they would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. Laura Ramm ESL Instructor MSU, English Language Center mobile: 734-657-5308 Subject: High Priority: EXTREME OPPOSITION TO THE PROPOSED NEW REGULATIONS From: "Mary Ann Robinson" <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 9:44 pm To: <[email protected]>


Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, I am writing to express my extreme dissatisfaction with the proposed new regulations of the Wayne County Airport Authority. They would: 1. Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” 2. Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to the Michigan Flyer in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. 3. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA's own responsibility to ensure accessibility of airport facilities. 4. Potentially double the number of stops that the Michigan Flyer would make at the airport causing unnecessary delays in scheduling. Such actions call attention to person's with disabilities and are outrageous and insulting. Additionally, the US Department of Justice's job is to enforce and uphold the ADA not make a mockery of it. Implementing the proposed regulations would be a huge step backward for everyone involved. Mary Ann Robinson Vice President Jackson Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Michigan Subject: Changes to Michigan Flyer schedule From: Linda Bissell <[email protected]> Date: Sat, March 05, 2016 7:07 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] I utilize the Michigan Flyer to travel to DTW 4-5 times per year. The service is so convenient that we are able to take advantage of lower fares and direct flights. Additionally before I retired I travelled for business the Flyer was sometimes a last minute option if I had a connection back to Lansing that was often cancelled, leaving me stuck at Metro. Bad weather, high parking fees and convenience for the consumer make the flyer a better experience overall. The location change for pick up and drop off at McNamara was a huge burden for many who use this mode of transportation. The walk with luggage and golf bags is cumbersome and it is cold. You have to stand out in the cold regardless of the "waiting room" since the stop is so far down. Proposing to add a stop where passengers can get off opens the door for everyone to take advantage of the very stop which seemingly is designed to help those who need it.


Who becomes the gatekeeper? Obviously if the new stop is closer, most will exit so why not make just one stop that is convenient like the old one, or simply do the pickup outside the waiting room. Linda (Biss) Subject: Michigan Flyer loading/unloading at DTW airport From: "rharveymd ." <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 5:49 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, Attorney General Bill Schuette, Dept of Justice Attorney Susan DeClerc I use the Michigan Flyer almost every time I fly out of DTW. I am a professional, and a small business owner. I travel both for personal and professional/business. The old Michigan Flyer location seemed safe, and convenient. The "newer location" is very inconvenient. It is a long walk. In the winter it is very cold, and in the summer it is very hot. The new proposal to provide 2 different places for loading and unloading seems at best ridiculous, and potentially very discriminating. It seems to me that the idea of "separate but equal" facilities has been deemed discriminatory for many years. Allowing passengers with "special needs" early seating onto an airplane his profoundly different than "separate but equal". Logistically-it means that anyone needs to disembark at the Handicapped accessible location will have to self identify before they board the bus, so that their luggage can be separated. Without separation at time of bloating, and potentially all the literature have to be offloaded, disabled customers would take her luggage into the luggage reloaded. The bus would then move ~ 200 yards so that the "regular passengers" can disembark. In my view, this "no arrangement" will create confusion, and lengthen the time that it takes for the Mishkin flyer to load and unload passengers. This increases the amount of idling time that the diesel bus is sitting. Would expect this to have a negative impact on the environment. However the negative impact on the customers at DTW is probably more significant than the negative environmental impact. Perhaps management at DTW does not like University of Michigan/Ann Arbor & the MSU East Lansing/Lansing customers. It does seem like the shuttle buses for a number of local hotels near DTW get more favorable loading and unloading than the Michigan Flyer customers. Sincerely, Ralph Harvey, MD Cornerstone Family Practice East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: New regulations at Detroit Metro Airport


From: Mary Lou Dillon <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 4:00 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] This week I rode the Michigan Flyer to and from Detroit Metro airport to the new drop off, pick up location in the public transportation area. I can honestly say this new area seemed to be a more congested and, therefore, a more dangerous location for embarking and disembarking the bus, than the original location at the McNamara terminal. Surely, it is an impediment to seniors and to travelers with a disability. I never understood this change, as I didn't ever see the same amount of congestion at McNamara that I saw in the public transportation area. Now that you have to re-plan the pick up and drop off area in order to accommodate the needs of disabled or senior travelers, it shows the error of the decision to change from the original location in the first place. According to the new plan, everyone else who rides the Michigan Flyer will now be subject to multiple and unpredictable schedule changes, while segregating the disabled passengers. While you might think you are dealing with one entity, you are really dealing with thousands of bus passengers, many of whom might now be considering other airports. The behavior of the Detroit Metro airport authority on this issue is both disappointing and very curious. As a frequent bus passenger, I can only ask why. Sincerely, Mary Lou Dillon East Lansing Michigan Subject: Michigan Flyer and WCAA new regulations From: Nancy Miller <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 3:23 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, I'm writing to express my outrage at the new regulations that require ground transportation passengers with disabilities to request a special terminal drop-off point. This affects many people, but also affects Michigan Flyer, the best ground transportation operator in SE Michigan. These requirements force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities publicly in order to use the stops closer to the airport terminals. This is a stigma that the ADA was designed to avoid. These regulations: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities.


Double the number of stops Michigan flyer makes at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in their schedule. I urge you to return Michigan Flyer's location to load and unload Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. This is the safest location, and supports your desire to provide excellent customer service to ALL OF DTW's passengers. Nancy Miller 663 Springbrook Ct. Saline, MI 8176 Subject: Michigan Flyer drop off/pick up From: Maria Costa-fox <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 3:15 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I would prefer that the Michigan Flyer would drop off/pickup all Delta and Air France passengers in the McNamara International Arrivals curb, the way it did until a couple of years ago, when it was forced to change to a remote area, which I can never memorize the access to it in my return trips. Best, Maria Subject: WCAA's rule change on Michigan Flyer Bus From: BK Jeong <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 3:12 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I heard WCAA changed the policy and now the airport shuttle will make two stops at the Detroit Metro terminals – once near the terminal for handicapped passengers and second stop at the terminal parking structure. This is simply ridiculous. I just wonder who came up with such a dumb idea. I heard WCAA argued that it is like air carriers letting handicapped people get on and off before other passengers at a gate. This is no fair comparison. It would be a fair comparison only if air carriers letting the handicapped passengers get on and off at the closest gate from the terminal and then move to another gate to load on and off other guests. Allowing Michigan Flyer to load on and off closer to the terminal for handicapped people is a noble idea. If so, since the bus has already stopped, just let other guests get and off after the handicapped passengers. How much more time it would take for other guests to get on and off? Only a few more


minutes. If the bus has to make two stops, it will waste everybody’s time including those handicapped passengers and cause more congestions at the already busy terminals. One thing I can bet is that this is an idea of a person who never used (and has no plan to use) the Michigan Flyer shuttle. If the person ever used the shuttle, he or she would know how ridiculous idea this is. In fact, this is an idea worth ridiculed at evening talk shows. BK Jeong A frequently user of Michigan Flyer shuttle Subject: Please reinstate the Michigan Flyer stop at International Arrivals, McNamara Terminal From: Erica Brown Ackerman <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 3:08 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Please reverse your decision to move the Michigan Flyer stop from the accessible location it used for many years outside International Arrivals at McNamara Terminal. That spot didn't cause anyone any problems, it was accessible for people with disabilities, and it was convenient for passengers. Thank you, Erica Ackerman Subject: Rule changes for Michigan Flyer drop-off sites From: Merry Strohmer <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 12:22 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sir, It seems to me that you would like to encourage people to use your facility but over the past few years you have made it more difficult for people to reach destinations in your facility due to changes where passengers can be dropped off from the Michigan Flyer bus service. What was wrong with the original bus stops when the bus service began? I think you need to consider providing the most efficient service possible for passengers who come from other parts in Michigan and elsewhere to your facility. I used to drive to DTW and park, at great expense I might add, to fly from Detroit. Then, I used the Michigan Flyer service when I left on trips from Detroit. A very nice convenience for me and many others.


Lately, I have been driving to Flint or Grand Rapids to start my trips to other destinations bypassing Detroit altogether. So, 1) Consider meeting with the bus services, including the Michigan Flyer people, to come to a mutual conclusion regarding the best practice for picking up and dropping airline passengers. 2) Think positive about the service you provide (airline service) and make the journey as pleasant as possible when you can influence that process. All that security checking is traumatic enough so give the approaching experience (bus service) further consideration. 3) Americans with disabilities have money too and they remember where their access was compatible and tolerable as they travel to their destinations. You can never have enough signage as passengers not familiar with your facility make their way to their designated airline or ground transportation. Thank you for consideration of my suggestions. Merry Strohmer [email protected] Subject: Latest Ground Transportaion Regulations at Detroit Metro From: "Joan G. Smith" <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 11:56 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> The latest ground transportation regulations at Detroit Metro airport continue the discriminatory practices that have been in effect for the past many months. Although my husband and I (aged 78 and 70) do not have any “disabilities” as defined by law, we have had extremely difficult experiences making our way to the current Michigan Flyer pick-up location after returning from Amsterdam, through Washington D.C., with all of the security checks and the Michigan winter. By the time we got back to Detroit, our legs were cramped and tired, the sidewalk and roadway (which is not supposed to be used – but is frequently – was covered with sleet and icy. We dutifully hauled our suitcases up to the crossover bridge walkway, down the dark, frigid corridor, down to the ground and out to the MI flyer pick-up only to find one bus had left only minutes before. Then we waited for nearly an hour in the frigid cold (mostly indoors with fewer than the necessary number of sitting places) for our bus. The airport in Washington D.C. was awful, but getting home to Detroit metro was even worse. Every other airport throughout Europe was fantastic! In and out in minutes, baggage handlers who cannot accept tips, moving walkways if a walk requires any distance at all, restaurants and stores at all hours of the day or night, bright lights and consistent heating/cooling throughout. With this ridiculous new regulation at Metro, what is a person to do? Do we leave my 93 year old mother (or brother-in-law who is disabled with Multiple System Atrophy) with only her luggage while schlepping ours up the elevator, across the walk-way, down the elevator and waiting for the bus. Do I (her caretaker) stay with my mother and her luggage, while hoping my husband can make it to the bus alone with the luggage?


mailto:[email protected]

You all know this is more politics. FOLLOW THE MONEY Who is going to benefit when MI Flyer goes under? Who is going to benefit when the billion dollar train is built to run between Lansing and the metro area? Who has been benefiting from the Owosso train cars that were refurbished and have been sitting on the sidelines ever since – again without any thought to Americans with Disabilities legislation? Does it sound familiar? Yet another boondoogle that the citizens of MI will pay for! Subject: dtw michigan flyer From: Ing Mich <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 11:04 am To: Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> To whom it may concern: Can't people leave well enough alone. Everything was going perfectly well, no accidents, no incidents, people had a shelter and not too far to walk. Please allow Michigan Flyer to go back to their original location, Delta, AF, KLM, for all, not just people with disabilities. Very disgruntled, inconvenienced individual!!! Thank you p.s not that this e-mail will accomplish very much, everything seems to have to go to court to get settled. Subject: Michigan flyer accessability From: LindaLewis JohnColwell <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 9:45 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "." <[email protected]>, Matt <[email protected]> To whom it concerns: I am strongly opposed to the proposed changes to the proposed adjustments in the drop off points for passengers at dtw. These changes are not necessary, and they are inconvenient for me, discriminatory, and unfair. The previous practice of a single drop point for Delta passengers has provided useful, affordable reliable transportation service for a long time. Please do not make changes to this policy that will proven to be needlessly burdensome.


Regards, John Colwell Subject: Irrational Plan for Separate Stops for Disabled Passengers of the Michigan Flyer From: Arthur Wolfe <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 9:13 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I'm glad that the airport authority recognizes the desirability of a more convenient Michigan Flyer stop for its disabled passengers. But I don't understand why it has created such inconvenient stops for the rest of us. I have commuted to and from DTW on the Flyer many times in the past few years, and I have a very negative feeling about the authority decidion that able-bodies passengers need to walk an extra 200 yards to a cold location at the end of the Ground Transportation Center to get on the Michigan Flyer. Having 2 stops at each terminal is not only inconvenient for the vast majority of passengers but it also lengthens the time of our bus travel. If you can provide a convenient stop for disabled passengers, I don't see why all passengers are not allowed to use that stop like in 2014. Thank you for your consideration of my concerns. Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Wolfe Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Maggie Robbins <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 8:49 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Whom It May Concern: (which means all of you) Please take action on the new rules involving the Michigan Flyer stops at DTW. As a frequent user of this service, I find this an outrageous move by the WCAA. The Michigan Flyer serves many customers who rely on their convenient service and easy access. To require passengers to keep changing the pick-up destination is ridiculous and this new stop being so far away and uncovered is an irresponsible move by those making this decision. I respectfully request that you get involved and take action in this matter. Regards,


Maggie Robbins Subject: Michigan Flyer Support From: [email protected] Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 8:18 am To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] One simple question: Why do you make it difficult for the Michigan Flyer organization, who just want to offer a great transportation service to the people of mid Michigan and the Ann Arbor area? Shame on Mero Airport and the people who make these decisions. Grown up and do the right thing and quit pandering to a select few. Keith Bertrand Haslett, Michigan Subject: Bus accommodations at DTW From: Terry Gliedt <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 6:54 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] My wife and I have been using the Michigan Flyer bus from Ann Arbor to the Detroit airport ever since it's inception of the bus run. I read recently about the series of changes by WCAA over the last two? Years which resulting in moving the bus stop to it's current miserable stop. The current stop at the far end of the parking structure is particularly onerous in the winter - especially given that there was a time when it was much closer to shelter, out of the noise and pollution in the parking structure. Standing out in the cold, as we must today, certainly doesn't encourage people to take alternative transportation to the airport. The stop at the north terminal is far more hospitable. Now I read that WCAA is considering (has?) told the MichiganFlyer people they should stop twice - once to pick up people with disabilities and then move on to the current terrible pick up position (perhaps that is the point?). In any case if the bus will stop in the more convenient place for people with disabilities, why would reasonable people not expect to get on there too - avoiding a second stop a couple of hundred yards further on? I encourage the people in charge of this to facilitate us all to use the bus, reducing congestion, noise and pollution by allowing the MichiganFlyer (and others?) to pick up and discharge passengers as had been the case in the past, close to the terminal. Thank you for your consideration.



Subject: Michigan Flyer at DTW From: mary crawford <[email protected]> Date: Sat, Mar 05, 2016 1:45 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> The current pick-up and drop-off site for the Michigan Flyer is the furthest possible location in the Ground Transportation Center. This is very inconvenient for all passengers, both healthy and disabled. It is a long walk and very difficult to do with 2 pieces of luggage. Recently, the elevator didn't work and I got lost trying to find the location. It is very cold in the winter to wait down there, whether in the waiting room or at the stop. You have to wait down there because the bus can't be seen from any other location. Please move the Michigan Flyer bus stop at McNamara back where it used to be. It was much more convenient and pleasant there. I hate where it is located now! Thank you. Mary Crawford 938 Huntington Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: Please bring back more convenient drop offs for ALL Michigan flyer passengers! From: Rena Seltzer <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:40 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, Please roll back the changes that are forcing Michigan Flyer airport service to drop off passengers in less convenient locations. The Michigan Flyer is a gem in Michigan’s sadly lacking transportation system. Please don’t make life more difficult for Michigan Flyer passengers. Sincerely, Rena Seltzer 6 Dover Court Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103 (734) 665 4885 Subject: DTW drop off pick up by Michigan Flyer From: John CPA <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:12 pm


To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I travel regularly to DTW and most often use Michigan Flyer as my means of travel to Ann Arbor. This efficient, economical and environmentally responsible service is remarkable as a scheduled shuttle service. It is superior to that offered in LAX to which I also travel where their Flyer service drops off and pickups their passengers at each terminal's entrance (LAX has 7 terminals) which are certainly more "congested" than those at DTW. The LAX Flyer's use of "front of terminal" drop off and pickup doesn't cause undue congestion or delay and rarely takes anymore time in place than is accountable by the number of passengers embarking or disembarking. Individual cars create nearly equivalent congestion when the time for individual vehicles to reach and exit the curb through two or sometimes three rows of cars is considered. I urge the Authority to return to allowing all Michigan Flyer buses to drop off and pickup all passengers at the Terminals (the locations utilized 2 years ago) rather than in a remote section near the underground parking area currently utilized or the even more disruptive two stop two classes of passengers approach now proposed in response to ADA complaints. Economical and environmentally responsible travelers should not be accorded less convenient access to DTW than those electing more expensive less responsible modes of airport travel. Sincerely, John Combs CPA Subject: Fwd: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Robert Kiss <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:57 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, Thank you for the note regarding the political red-tape, My advice is to get both Charley LeDuff (Fox 2 news), and the Mayor of Detroit involved. Otherwise, you are likely just spinning your wheels and wasting time. I am nearing 60 years old, and that walk to the pick-up location is ridiculous. Best, Robert Kiss Subject: (no subject) From: Helene Pollock <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:03 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>


Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am very disappointed with the new regulations at the Detroit airport, though which I travel often on my way to visit my mother. The former pick-up position worked well. Why change it? I don't like the idea of segregating people with disabilities or making them declare their disability and be treated differently. When I travel with my mother in a wheelchair, she will not like the new arrangement. Please reconsider. Helene Pollock, Philadlephia Subject: Ground Transportation changes at Detroit Metro From: susan <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:27 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, Disembarking recently at the Michigan Flyer McNamara drop off point, I was reminded of the inadequacies of Detroit Airport ground transportation. This particular pick-up/drop-off point is not only an embarrassment for those heading toward our state capital but also inaccessible for persons with disabilities--a rude contrast to its former (original) location. I applaud the attempt to improve the situation (as indicated in a recent email notification from Thomas Naughton, CEO Wayne County Authority), however, the proposed changes are woefully misguided, needlessly leading to vast inefficiency and confusion, not to mention a violation of the American with Disabilities Act. As a major international airport, surely Detroit airport can join their more progressive cohorts in providing safe, convenient, accessible, and non-segregated ground transportation for all travellers, just as they have done so successfully in the not-so-distant past. I have noticed that Detroit Metro has gone to great lengths and expense to improve travellers' experiences beyond security (toward the gates) and even in the luggage claim area, all welcome improvements. Equal consideration of ground transportation including accessibility/seating and clear signage would go a long way in demonstrating Michigan Airport Authority's commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, respect for all passengers, and perhaps even reflect a little state pride. As a person who chooses public transportation to/from our state capitol, I urge Wayne County Airport Authority to provide adequate and equal ground transportation facilities to all its valued passengers. Yours Sincerely, Susan Cogan Okemos, MI


Subject: Michigan Flyer loading and unloading From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:20 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], susan declercq <[email protected]>, [email protected] Detroit Metro and Delta airlines used to be our carrier and airport of choice because we could take the Michigan Flyer from East Lansing to and from the doorway of the terminal, the same place one of our sons would drop us. Both my wife and I are entering the 'octogenarian' set and although cannot be considered disabled but the regulations put in place eighteen months ago and the new modifications create an additional hardship in order to avoid, have to have someone drop us off or pick us up (contributing to more traffic at the terminal entrance). Since we are imposing on family or friends to drop us off at the terminal we have found it more accommodating to drive to Grand Rapids. Because you have made these burdensome regulations for no good reason, we all lose, my wife and I, the airline carrier and Detroit Metro. Subject: WCAA / DTW Regulations From: "Matthew C. Young" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:26 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To whom it may concern, As a frequent user of the Michigan Flyer over the past five years, the regulations that have been put into effect over the past 18 months have made the experience of getting from the bus to the terminal worse. What used to be a simple and easy drop off process has become confusing and inconvenient due to the changing location and timing. It seems absurd that the only public transit that services both East Lansing and Ann Arbor is continually being pushed to the outskirts of the airport for "safety". Whatever reasons given for these changes doesn't address the real issue of universal access and ADA requirements in a way that feels comprehensive. From what I can tell, more regulations are being put into effect to make this even more problematic. I hope some more thought and intelligent design can be put into this process before any more "safety" changes go into effect. Thanks, Matthew Young


Subject: Michigan Flyer service From: Mary Noel <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:25 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> We would like to add our voices to the concerns about treatment of patrons of DTW in trying to access the airport through the Michigan Flyer. Your lack of regard in our trying to get to our flights is shameful. It hurts our entire region in poor airline access. George and Mary Noel East Lansing, Mi Subject: Fwd: Air Ride Boarding Changes at Metro.. From: Anna Schnitzer <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:15 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hello! Below is a copy of the letter I sent about the new boarding regulations for individuals with disabilities who ride the Michigan Flyer/Air Ride from East Lansing or Ann Arbor to Metro Airport. Speaking for myself personally, as the coordinator of the Council for Disability Concerns at the University of Michigan, I know that the members of our disability community are very unhappy about this "special" treatment. We want EVERYBODY to be treated well, and we do not want to be resented, stigmatized or have to reveal our disability by being treated differently from the other passengers. We do NOT like this new plan! Thanks very much for your consideration of our opinions. /anna ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Anna Schnitzer <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 11:45 AM Subject: Air Ride Boarding Changes at Metro.. To: [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: From our traveling perspective (my husband's and mine) as Ann Arbor inhabitants and frequent Delta travelers, we enjoyed the perfect system at Metro Airport in the original boarding plan at the International Arrivals Terminal. We could remain comfortably seated in a room where it was warm and exhaust-fume-free; the public restrooms were nearby; the elevator and phones were a few steps away. We could just relax after a long trip, seated on the bench while we waited for the Michigan Flyer and watching through the window if we were early for its arrival time. And, contrary to what we were told


later, in our experience when viewing through the window, it was SAFE! The only vehicles we could see from where we waited (and sometimes we were there between buses, for long periods of time) were the airport employees' bus and our OWN Michigan Flyer/Air Ride. (The current stop, on the other hand, is, as you know, far from the building, very cold and dark, permeated by and smelling powerfully of exhaust fumes--even indoors near the desk where one must wait--and truly unhealthy in a myriad of ways). And in the original boarding plan, there was no blatant nor offensive distinction made between those passengers who have disabilities and those who do not. Universal design calls for equality and accessibility for EVERYONE! Thank you for your kind consideration of this message. Sincerely, anna Anna Ercoli Schnitzer Informationist--Disability Issues and Outreach Taubman Health Sciences Library Coordinator, UM Council for Disability Concerns Chair, James T. Neubacher Award Committee University of Michigan Distinguished Diversity Leader Commissioner, City of Ann Arbor Commission on Disability Issues 734 936 1402 orcid.org/0000-0002-7875-1328 [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer and ADA From: "Auchus, Richard" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:10 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> As someone who regularly takes the Michigan Flyer to DTW, I urge you to provide a single dropoff location for all passengers that accommodates those with disabilities. About 2 weeks ago, a woman riding with me was trying to carry 2 bags from the bus dropoff location to the entrance 200 yards away while using crutches. Fortunately I had little to carry myself and was able to help her. I have no idea how she would have made it otherwise. Public transportation is convenient, economical, and environmentally responsible. It should be safe as well for all passengers, including those with disabilities. Rich Auchus



Subject: DTW: Airport New Ground Transportation Rules From: Stephanie Heit <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:01 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I'm a frequent user of the Michigan Flyer and am writing to say that the new rules proposed by the DTW airport are ridiculous. Instead of supporting disabled people, these rules segregate and stigmatize them. The ADA was created to insure equal access and services. To create a separate stop for disabled people is discriminatory and not aligned with the ADA. My partner is a wheelchair user and to imagine having a separate stop just for us to get off while the able bodied passengers wait for the whole on and off procedures for a wheelchair...this creates more ill will towards disabled people. A simple solution would be to have one stop that is accessible for all. Best, Stephanie Heit [email protected] https://independent.academia.edu/StephanieHeit Subject: New Regulations for Michigan Flyer From: Lynn Thelen <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:55 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I am very disappointed with the new "hoops" you are forcing the Michigan Flyer to jump through. The Michigan Flyer enables many of us to enjoy a stress-free ride to the airport without having to ask family or friends to drive us all the way to Detroit (I live in St. Johns). It makes it easier for all of us. If this is what you intend to do, I will start flying out of Bishop Airport or Grand Rapids. It may cost a little bit more, but it will be much easier for the people who are taking the time out of their busy lives to give us a ride. You will lose many people from flying out of your airport. Don't you guys have better things to do with your time? WOW!! Sincerely, Lynn Thelen Subject: DTW and the Michigan Flyer From: Diedrich Guenther <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:44 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]


https://independent.academia.edu/StephanieHeit

Hello respected officers. I am not only a citizen of Lansing, Michigan but also a airline pilot. Despite my occasional use of the Michigan Flyer I have strong feelings toward the new decisions to segregate disabled passengers from others. I have always questioned the decision to move the orignal Michigan Flyer bus stop from the McNamara Terminal to the GTC. The original stop was close, convenient, warm, dry and had ample seating. The McNamara GTC has none of this in close proximity for the able bodied nor disabled passenger. Of other concerns to this decision: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. Of the issue directly affecting myself and all passengers is causing the doubling of stops at the airport! That's unacceptable. This decision will add 20 minutes to all trips from the airport. I should know, when I overnight at the Westin and we arrive at the North Terminal, it takes us a full 20 minutes just to get from the north to the south. I urge you to reconsider this latest decision, it may look good on paper but it is not a good decision in actuality. Please return to the original stop at the McNamara Terminal. Sincerely, Diedrich Guenther C: 517-974-4629 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Chris Erley <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:18 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] My name is Chris Erley. As a semi-frequent passenger on the Michigan Flyer from East Lansing to DTW, I was extremely disappointed to learn of the ill treatment the Flyer was getting from the WCAA under the euphemistically and thinly-veiled ruse of "improving customer service". Why is this highly reliable and convenient service being literally kicked to the curb?


I'll go on record as saying I emphatically request the Michigan Flyer have their original stops, one per terminal and in a location most convenient to the passengers and not the WCAA, be reinstated without delay. If you need further contact information to validate this email, please reply to this email address and let me know what information is needed and I will gladly supply it. Don't jeopardize the truly wonderful service provided by the Flyer. They should be rewarded, not punished. Sincerely Chris Erley Subject: Detroit_Metropolitan_Airport’s_pl an_to_Drop_Off_Disabled_Passengers From: Bill Wen <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:09 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am a senior and frequent user of Air Ride. It bothers us seniors that Airport Authority moved the bus stop to the farthest possible location couple years ago. The proposed additional stop for the Disabled is outrageous. Why would you want to singled out the Disabled passengers? Airline boards Disabled passengers early but it is at the same location, not segregated. I am against the segregated stop. Bill Wen Subject: Michigan Flyer pick-up location at Detroit Metro Airport From: John Scott-Craig <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:56 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I am writing to you to add my voice to those of the many residents of Mid-Michigan who use the services of the Michigan Flyer to travel to and from the Detroit Metro Airport. The Michigan Flyer provides a convenient and weather-independent means for many of us who live in the great Lansing and greater Ann Arbor areas to reliably make connections to flights leaving Detroit.


The Wayne County Airport Authority has made access to the Michigan Flyer buses much more difficult, much more inconvenient and much less safe in its actions over the past year and a half. By moving the Michigan Flyer drop off and pick up site to a location far from protection from the weather (rain, snow or wind) and in a location that requires crossing a heavily travelled street, the WCAA has made it both difficult and dangerous to take advantage of this valuable travel option. I strongly protest your actions and am asking that you immediately restore the original and safe transfer location in the McNamara terminal that functioned so well for so many years . Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter and I hope to hear soon that you have taken the steps necessary to restore both the safe and convenient Michigan Flyer transfer location and, at the same time, our faith in the Wayne County Airport Authority. My very best regards, John Scott-Craig East Lansing, Mi 48823 Subject: Michigan Flyer Bus Stop From: Jim and Maribeth Fletcher <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:56 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt, Please return the Michigan Flyer bus stop close to the airport where it was originally. I use the flyer every time I fly and liked the stop closer to the airport, and this would be closer for handicapped passengers. Sincerely, Maribeth Fletcher Subject: two drop off points From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:52 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear All, I realize that in motor city Detroit, the regulators and the government try to scare everyone off using public or shared transport, and would like everyone to use a car, in this case, to go to DTW airport.


I like not wasting gas for a 200 mile + round trip to the airport, plus paying for parking. It is easy and convenient by Michigan flyer, EXCEPT DTW sends us almost all the way to Canada to get off the bus, and then we have to troop back to our terminal. All over the world, international airports have drop- off and boarding points for buses at each of their terminals, from Moscow to Bangkok, from Seoul to Kennedy. Not DTW. Fiercely determined to stay 15 years behind in time? Discriminating against NON DISABLED passengers? What, we are just the riff raff, to hell with OUR convenience. Not disabled, not worthy of your consideration? Puzzled Anne Stachowski Subject: Detroit Airport - Michigan Flyer From: Jay Goodman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:41 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Cc: [email protected] 4 March 2016 To: Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) From: Jay Goodman, East Lansing, Michigan Subject: Proposed new regulations affecting the Michigan Flyer’s bus service at the Detroit Airport I’m writing to speak-out against the proposed new regulations. It is my understanding that the WCAA is poised to impose new regulations that will require the Michigan Flyer bus to make two stops, rather than the current one stop, at each terminal. Specifically, one for disabled persons to be dropped off/picked up close to the terminal and one located many 100s of feet away from the terminal for the other passengers. I am opposed to the proposed new regulations for the following reasons: 1. They will stigmatize disabled persons. 2. Other vehicles at the drop off/pick up area will be delayed due to increased congestion because the bus is making two stops rather than one. Increasing the congestion can lead to increasing the hassle level at the airport and it seems this could have an adverse effect on safety. 3. Time and effort will be wasted if passengers boarding the bus in East Lansing and Ann Arbor must have their luggage segregated as to disabled/non-disabled in addition to which terminal they plan to disembark at.


4. Having two stops at a terminal instead of one will cause delays leading to non-disabled passengers becoming frustrated and angry because people are typically in a hurry to make their flight and to get on the bus to go home. It is both senseless and needless to add this extra hassle. 5. People who typically do not think of themselves as “disabled” might claim a disability in order to get dropped off/picked up close to the terminal, e.g., especially in the case of inclement weather. Will the bus driver question anyone who walks with a bit of a limp or claims they are recovering from a serious operation? I suggest the answer is “no.” 6. Number five, above, will: a) serve to trivialize those who are truly disabled, and b) encourage more and more passengers to game the system by claiming a disability. Thus, in a rather short time everyone might be disembarking/embarking at the “disabled location.” The solution at the McNamara Terminal is obvious, revert to the previous situation where the Michigan Flyer dropped off and picked up passengers at door 402. If this location is proposed to be OK for disabled persons, why is it not OK for everyone? It appears to me that WCAA looks for ways to inconvenience the Michigan Flyer and its passengers. Subject: DTW changes to Michigan Flyer Service From: Stephen Funk <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:29 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I have just read Michigan Flyer's version of their treatment by Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) at Detroit Metro Airport (DTW). The WCAA requirement to move loading gates does not make sense to me. I have never seen the loading area crowded enough that the long haul busses need to be moved. I and my adult children use DTW and the Michigan Flyer service to get to Lansing. We probably make a combined half dozen trips/ year over the last six years. The Michigan Flyer has been a great service to us when we just can't find a reasonable flight directly to Lansing, and that happens with more regularity. It just so happens that I am planning a trip next week and am a little concerned that I won't know where to pick up the Michigan Flyer. Michigan Flyer has filled a very real transportation need in mid-Michigan for many years. In addition the operator, Indian Trails, has been a trustworthy business for many years. I hope that you will be able to provide whatever assistance you can to Indian Trails so that they can resolve this dispute with WCAA before it negatively impacts innocent customers. Best Regards, Stephen Funk


Subject: Michigan Flyer Airide NcNamara Terminal Bus Stops From: Maureen <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 4:21 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Whom It May Concern: It is with extreme disappointment that I write this letter. I have recently read that the Michigan Flyer, which we frequently take to Detroit, is planning to have 2 drop-offs at the McNamara terminal, one of which is far away from an entrance door. This is the biggest piece of political baloney that I have ever seen. For years, we were able to be dropped off by the door. That was stopped and we have been using that far away stop the last several times we have flown. It is inconvenient, cold, and frequently slippery. The air pollution is unbelievable. It is also difficult to navigate with two bags. My husband and I are in our 60's. It is beyond my comprehension that we would have to lie and say we were handicapped in order for us to get off at a safer spot. We and the other passengers on the bus should be able to get off by the door closest to the terminal since it stops there anyway. Making us wait would also cost us time in trying to make our flights. This obviously retribution and it needs to be corrected. Just what do you plan to do when all the passengers try to get off the bus when it stops by the terminal? Security guards checking our status, police to arrest us, illegally asking for personal health information, arming the bus driver???? One of the people to whom this email is addressed should be able to stop this insanity. It is wrong and stupid. Mrs. Maureen Dykstra 2123 Holiday Lane Lansing, MI 48917 [email protected] Subject: MICHIGAN FLYER CUSTOMER and Michigan resident From: Laura Ford <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 3:42 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hello, I am a frequent Michigan Flyer user and would like to express my concern over the new regulations that effect the drop off and pick up locations at Detroit Metro. I side with Michigan Flyer on the following issues: "Among our many concerns about the new regulations are that they would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.”



Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark." Thank you for your time. Please help us all continue to make our flights. ;-) Cheers Laura Ford Subject: Proposed addition stop for Michigan Flyer to accommodate persons with disabilities From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 3:14 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Sir: The proposal to add an additional stop for the Michigan Flyer to pick up passengers with disabilities, while maintaining the existing stop for non-disabled passengers is illogical and at face value appears punitive. I am unaware of the factors underlying the decision two years ago to move the Michigan Flyer boarding area to the current frigid wind tunnel, but speculation has to be given to de-incentivising passengers from using the Flyer to increase profits from the parking structure, or perhaps someone on your board has an ax to grind with Indian Trails. There is no possible way to spin the story for passenger safety or convenience, as was initially attempted. The Flyer provides an excellent service for passengers using Detroit Metro, where parking is both expensive and inconvenient. If I can't or choose not to use the Flyer in the future, I'll drive and park and fly out of Bishop in Flint, so everybody in Detroit looses. If a suitable boarding area for persons with disabilities is being created, then logically all passengers should board there. Doing otherwise points to some other nefarious rationale, and if that be the case, you should be ashamed. Ronald P. Swenson


Subject: Michigan Flyer AirRide Bus From: Melissa Thun <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:50 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am a regular user of the AirRide bus from Ann Arbor to Metro Detroit Airport. As a senior citizen the change in the drop off and pick up location at the McNamara Terminal has been quite inconvenient. The original location at the International baggage level was much easier and convenient for everyone. It has been brought to my attention that there may be a change which will result in two stops each way to accomodate passengers with special needs. This would double the time for all other passengers and single out those who have disabilities. Instead, a better solution would be to revert back to the original stop at the International baggage level. Please consider the needs of all the riders and find a way to provide better service for all of us. Thanks, Melissa Thun Subject: Airport transportation regulations From: Linda Teaman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:38 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I agree and have great concerns over the recent proposed plans and new regulations I believe that that they would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule.


Linda Teaman Ann Arbor Subject: Michigan Flyer Changes From: Jan Davies McDermott <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:36 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I've recently been informed of new changes in the Michigan Flyer's ability to service my customers in the most efficient, most effective and safest way. The continuing changes in service delivery, dictated by the airport, have continually confused, delayed, and complicated my guests. Although I don't know why the changes are deemed necessary by WCAA, I can speak to the convenience and safety of the original pick up/drop off location. Guests now complain about how far it is to connect with the Flyer, and cite the safety of crossing the street. Now another change not only causes more confusion, but also causes delays (adding an additional stop) and basically says "regular" passengers are designated to be less safe and given a more challenging experience by being dropped off a significant distance away from the location that is deemed better for "disabled" passengers. Their question is why - why can't they just get off there? It would seem this new change discriminates against "regular" travelers, and begs the question, why can't all the passengers get off at the more convenient, safer specially designated location? And further, why is DTW attempting to negatively impact a business that BRINGS passengers (DTW customers) to the airport by making things more difficult for them? And one more question, what evidence must one have to prove he/she is disabled? It would seem any passenger could self-claim a non-visible disability (mental impairment, diabetes, depression, cancer, pulmonary disease, elderly, etc) and disembark at the specially designated location, especially if a person is concerned about maneuvering the distance, the traffic, and compromising their own health and safety. As a hospitality industry provider, I am concerned about my guests. I want them to have the best experience possible when visiting Pure Michigan. I want them to return. I want them return to their homes and speak to the ease with which they are able to connect to public and private transportation options to get to and from their destinations when visiting Michigan. I am only small, but I speak for hundreds of guests who visit my property each year. The future of Michigan's travel, tourism, and convention industry is dependent on our ability to provide the quickest, easier, most enjoyable experience we can possibly provide to encourage more business development, and contribute to the economic recovery of our state. Working together is critical.


Please think beyond what is best for WCAA to what is best for our travelers, our visitors, our citizens, and our businesses. Allow this connecting transporter to make the closest, most convenient connection for its riders. Jan Davies McDermott Owner and Innkeeper Davies House Bed & Breakfast and Extended Stay Inn Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Noah Koller <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:34 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Clearly, these changes don't benefit users of this service. One wonders who is either benefiting or hopes to benefit. I also wonder what your motivation is for this change. As someone who sometimes parks in off site lots and takes shuttles to the terminals, I know how long a trek that is to pass the security gate. Public transportation should be supported and not crippled. Focus on solving problems, not creating them. Regards, C. Koller Subject: Difficulties getting to Detroit metro airport (DTW) From: itzik henig <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:23 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Sir/Madam, Detroit airport is one of the most difficult airports to get to by public transportation. In most airports around the world people have direct access to buses, trains, trams and other modes of public transportation. It's a shame that DTW is so far behind when it comes to access by public transportation. We finally have the Michigan Flyer bus service that provides somewhat of an alternative to driving one's own car or using expensive limousine or taxi services. Please make sure that this service stays in place and do the best you can to make it more user friendly. Thanks. Best regards


Isaac Henig Subject: new regulations for Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:22 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] to whom it concerns I am a travel agent and the new regulations are very poor for our clients. I personally feel that we should not have to sort out various clients to get off at one stop because they are disabled and another at a different spot. My husband has had a stroke so when we travel it is best to get to the easiest entrance. It is like singling them out because they are handicap and also most have a person with them to help so what is the point. Just because it is a bus should not make a difference. The Michigan flyer is a god send for travelers and these new regulations could make them think twice about continuing and also drive up the price in the future. Joyce Crosby Travel Consultant Capital Area Travel Leaders Formerly Drolett Travel New address 820 Charlevoix Ste 240 Grand Ledge, MI 48837 800-627-8350 / 517-627-8350 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Caron Fenning <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:15 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I love the Michigan Flyer and appreciate all they do to get me to the Detroit Airport on time to make my connecting flights. It is cruel and unusual punishment to get another vendor that CANNOT assist disabled people the way Michigan Flyer does. if it wasn't for Michigan Flyer Detroit's airport system would go down the toilet. Myself included would fly out of Flint, Grand Rapids, or Lansing instead of flying out of Detroit.


What the governor, attorney general or any others who are trying to stop Michigan Flyer from assisting those with disabilities is ridiculous and a stupid move. I ask the court system to give the powers back to Michigan Flyer so they continue their outstanding service for all of their Michigan Flyer customers. Sincerely, Caron Fenning Subject: New Ground Transportation Rules at DTW - this doesn't make sense From: Mark Giuffrida <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:12 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I use the Michigan Flyer. I am a little perturbed at some new rules being put in place on the carriers such as Michigan Flyer. "McNamara Terminal Drop-offs – The Ground Transportation Operator must first complete its passenger drop-off at its standard location for all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation, after which the Ground Transportation Operator must drop off the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) at the McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb, as shown on Attachment 11." Seriously? So you are willing to stop at the normal closer by place anyways, but unwilling to do so for the "other" passengers. Why are you making things difficult for us passengers? Are you trying to put these kinds of transportation companies out of business by having customers look for other options that get them closer to the real terminal dropoff? Why is it that limos are still allowed a closer dropoff? Why is it so important to change things now that have been in place successfully for so many years? Not to mention, don't you think customers are likely to game the system by requesting the ADA dropoff regardless of whether or not they are truly disabled? So in the end that will likely lead to more congestion since the buses will have to stop there anyways. Please revert back to the original rules and stop trying to "fix" things. Subject: Fw: Michigan Flyer at DTW From: Cynthia Ghering <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:05 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>


On Friday, March 4, 2016 10:32 AM, Cynthia Ghering <[email protected]> wrote: Hello Mr. McGowan, Our family has used Michigan Flyer for many years when flying out of DTW for professional and personal trips. In fact, the only time we don't use it is when we fly out of Flint or Grand Rapids. We were VERY disappointed 18 months ago when Michigan Flyer was forced to move it's convenient and safe loading/unloading area from the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. Now we read in the Detroit News and Free Press that DTW is mandating that Michigan Flyer make TWO stops at each terminal - with one spot supposedly for the safety of disabled customers?! I am a mother of young children with major back problems. I have a handicap placard for my car but I do not like having to make a fuss about needing the SEPARATE loading/unloading area on days when my back is too weak for me to carry my luggage out to the new (and inconvenient) loading area. This new approach does NOT improve the situation for disabled patrons of Michigan Flyer. Why is DTW so opposed to providing ONE safe and convenient location for Michigan Flyer customers to load and unload? It seems like Michigan Flyer is being unfairly penalized for providing a service that actual encourages professionals like my husband and myself and families like ours to utilize the DTW airport. If this continues, we will boycott DTW and fly out of other more convenient terminals such as Flint and Grand Rapids. Please reinstall the Michigan Flyer's unloading/loading area to the International Arrives curb of McNamara Terminal. This was SO MUCH MORE convenient for ALL patrons of DTW airport and Michigan Flyer regardless of their physical abilities. Thank you for your consideration. Cynthia Ghering [email protected] East Lansing, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer Drop off Locations From: Leon Herriman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:49 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Sir, I just heard from the Michigan Flyer, that you are again moving their drop off and pickup locations. I believe this to be ridiculous. I'm wondering what you can do to make it even more difficult for Michigan Flyer and their passengers, who are also your customers.


I'd also wonder if having a separate dropoff location for handicapped people isn't discriminatory and could possibly subject you to further lawsuits. Pleased go back to the way it was. Thank you. Sincerely yours, Leon J. Herriman Subject: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Sarah Swider" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:46 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, Please reconsider these regulations. Mass transportation to and from the airport, especially shuttles, are essential for the flourishing and health of cities. Requiring two separate drop-offs will lengthen the route and cause unnecessary inconvenience for passengers and costs for the company. Up until 18 months ago, Michigan Flyer had, for many years, loaded and unloaded Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. It was safe, convenient, and accessible for all passengers—including seniors and people with disabilities. There was never a safety incident. Please go back to what worked. If this company fails or decided the DTW airport authority has made it too difficult for them, all passengers, ESPECIALLY people with disabilities will lose one of the few, if not only, affordable, convenient and environmentally friendly modes of transportation back and forth to the airport. DTW already has too many failures in their pocket to go down this road. I strongly encourage you to reconsider your new regulations. Sincerely Sarah Swider Subject: Re: issue with PUBLIC transportation manipulations From: Susan Chalgian <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:39 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Fairly impressive wording. And yet, I know what my impression is and feelings are when Mich Flyer has to drop off/pick up at the very, very end - almost outside of any shelter - of the "Ground Transportation Center" I'm not senseless nor narrow-minded. That WCAA doesn't embrace Mich Flyer more doesn't


appear to be "fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers" even when other logic is applied. Something is missing. Respectfully, Susan R Chalgian On Fri, Mar 4, 2016 at 1:25 PM, Susan Chalgian <[email protected]> wrote: Good afternoon. I have only written to community servants a few times over my 50+ years. I read a lot and pay close attention to current news and affairs. I always vote. Although WCAA may have an altruistic reason or some severe economic reason for making things difficult relative to Michigan Flyer drop off/pick up locations, it certainly looks like this latest decision and the one 18 months ago are purposely to deter their services. If WCAA is (and my intelligence is telling me it/you are) purposely being an obstacle to this fine, community oriented business - STOP IT. You may want to express all sorts of excuses but GET REAL: Michigan Flyer provides an important public service for today's world - economical for all, good use of natural resources, and just makes strong sense to catch a bus to DTW rather than drive personal car or fly. Stop being a part of the bigger problem and let this business thrive. Obviously, the market wants it. And it surely will boost business at DTW instead of (I assume) your negative, backward fears that it is taking away from DTW - or someone's - profits. For reference, I use Michigan Flyer services frequently when I travel in/out of DTW. Susan R Chalgian East Lansing, MI Subject: AATA Flyer From: "Martin, Donna (Donna)" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:32 pm To: "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]> Hello, I am writing to express my concern about the change in drop-off and pick-up locations for the AATA Flyer service at DTW airport. Segregating stops for people with disabilities violates the ADA, and is not acceptable.


I have used the service many times, and find it curious that these changes would be implemented without input from people who utilize this service regularly. I urge you to re-instate the earlier system of loading and unloading passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara terminal. It wasn’t broken, and didn’t need to be fixed. Sincerely, Donna Subject: Michigan Flyer Location At DTW From: Terrie <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:28 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Good Morning Mr. McGowan: I am recently informed of proposed changes to the pick-up/drop-off sites at Detroit's Metro Airport. As a user of Michigan Flyer's shuttle service from the Greater Lansing, Michigan area, these proposals should be revisited. Creating a "segregated" area for those patrons using the handicap access only is ludicrous. Further, eighteen months ago Michigan Flyer had a safe and completely accessable location which was also much more convenient to both the able-bodied and those needing "more assistance." From what I have been reading about the decision, to further remove the patrons using Michigan Flyer from a safe AND convenient location, is being pursued out of some sense of "we will do this BECAUSE WE CAN." The proposed additional stops will impact the ability of this company to provide their service at both the most efficient time and the best price. As a patron of this service I am disappointed to learn that the proposal is so anti-customer. Splitting up the sites AND making handicapped patrons announce themselves as such is also unfortunate to say the least. Is it not enough of an inconvenience that they would have to request this alternate site? I would be a happier customer of DTW if we patrons were all treated with the same level of respect. My airline departure taxes pay for such service location availability. Please consider restoring the original single location from 18 months ago. Thank you for your kind attention to this letter. Respectfully, Terrie Fielden-Barry


Subject: Comment on WCAA ground transportation policy From: Josh Hunt <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:24 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan (Cc Mr. Schuette, Ms. DeClercq, and Mr. Mackay), I am writing to express my concerns regarding WCAA's recent change in ground transportation regulations at the McNamara terminal. As a student at the University of Michigan, I frequently use this terminal to travel to conferences and visit home. My primary concern is that as a student with a non-obvious disability, I would not feel comfortable requesting to be picked up or dropped off at Door 402. Due to my scholastic activities, I have developed severe repetitive strain injuries in my fingers, wrists, and forearms that makes carrying luggage painful. However, to an outside observer, I look just like any ordinary, healthy 20-something. Hence, any request I made to avail myself of the stop for disabled passengers would look like I was abusing the system. The thought of potential stigma also makes me uncomfortable. Second, having an additional stop at McNamara terminal seems inherently inefficient for everyone, including those staying on the bus as it travels to the North terminal. Although I of course do not fully understand the motivations of the WCAA, it is difficult for me to conceive how this could possibly be for the best. As someone with an engineering degree, this strikes me as exactly the kind of thing we were taught to assiduously avoid as a design flaw in a process. I sincerely hope that the WCAA will consider reinstating the unified and convenient stop that the Michigan Flyer used before the relocation. Thank you very much for considering my concerns, -Josh Hunt Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations From: Lisa Saaf Capozza <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:24 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan: As a user of the Michigan Flyer service I am concerned about the new Ground Transportation Regulations that are being proposed. I use the Michigan Flyer regularly and have found it very convenient and helpful for getting to DTW. Michigan Flyer for many years loaded and unloaded Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. It


was safe, convenient, and accessible for all passengers—including seniors and people with disabilities. There was never a safety incident. Then, about 18 months ago, DTW moved the Michigan Flyer stop to the furthest possible location away from the McNamara Terminal—at the far south end of the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in the parking garage across the road. According to the WCAA, this “improves customer service” and was done for “safety” reasons (despite concerns expressed by Michigan’s governor, attorney general, the state transportation commission, and protests by hundreds of Michigan Flyer passengers, many of whom consider the GTC location unsafe and inaccessible). Three federal lawsuits alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act by the airport were filed because of the move—two in which Michigan Flyer and their parent company, Indian Trails, provided support for plaintiffs with disabilities, the third in which they alleged that the airport retaliated against them because of their advocacy on behalf of disabled passengers. Please use your authority and resources to make the DTW a safe accessible and convenient airport for everyone, including people with disabilities and people who would prefer to use public transit to reach the airport. A safe, convenient and clear operating procedure for public transit to the airport is in the public interest. Please look toward the future of our metropolis and find ways to make the airport MORE accessible and convenient to the public, not LESS so. Thank you for your consideration. Lisa Saaf Capozza Ann Arbor, MI Subject: double standard at Detroit Metro From: Mary Sharp <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:15 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] As an individual with a disability, a long term advocate for individuals with cognitive disability, and a medical specialist in ASD, I am insulted by the recent change in policy regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities who use public transportation to get to your airport. Best practices, through out disciplines that address issues related to either developmental or acquired disability site the common goal of inclusion over and over and over. For a public institution like the WCAA to promote such a mediocre "solution" to access for individuals with disabilities, is shockingly ignorant. It reads like a band-aid solution tumbled across by a committee, rather than an informed decision based on data and research.


My more cynical advocate voice might suggest you are prioritizing the privilege of access to companies who perhaps reimburse or otherwise incentivize your organization to bestow upon them more convenient locations for their customers. Last week while i was walking the distance between the Michigan Flyer drop off site and the escalator to the TSA screening, I did notice a number of transportation buses for the rental car services, with what appeared to be more convenient locations. I believe this issues could be resolved in a number of ways which could be agreed upon by all involved. This requires executive level leadership with an understanding of facilitating a win win outcome in public issues. My more cynical advocate voice suggests that is not how things are done in Wayne County, Mary Sharp M.D. Principal Autism Medical Consulting plc [email protected] LinkedIn Profile Past President MMAA www.midmichiganautism.org Subject: new regulations From: Mike Aronoff <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:49 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], susan.declercq@usdoj, [email protected] Dear Sir: I wish to register my strong objection to the proposed changes for the venue of the Michigan Flyer bus drop offs and pick ups at the Detroit airport. The changes will make it more difficult and dangerous for passengers using the airport. Please reconsider! Sincerely, Professor M.J. Aronoff Subject: Regulations requiring separate dropoff for people with disabilities From: Tom Voiles <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:43 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt,


http://www.midmichiganautism.org/

Can you explain why you are insisting on making it difficult for people to use Michigan Flyer to get to and from the McNamara terminal? I've been following the rather bizarre efforts to make it inconvenient and I just don't understand what you're trying to accomplish. thanks, Tom Voiles (a frequent Delta flyer and user of the Michigan Flyer service) Subject: Michigan Flyer Bus Service From: Frieda Chyn <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:41 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I read about the discriminatory treatment DTW airport is imposing on the Michigan Flyer Bus service and want you to know my displeasure. Michigan Flyer provides an excellent service at reasonable cost to people including seniors like me to get to Ann Arbor. I can only conclude airport authorities are colluding with taxi and other more expensive transportation providers to make Michigan Flyer less convenient. I am also concerned as a disabled person with difficulty walking to have to ask for special pickup at the former more convenient terminal location--why couldn't it be left there for all to board without me being singled out for requesting special service. Please reconsider and allow Michigan Flyer to return to old location at international terminal near Delta. Sincerely, Frieda Chyn Subject: Michigan Flyer service to DTW From: "David J Solomon, PhD" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:32 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I am a regular user of Michigan Flyer's service between East Lansing and Detroit Metropolitan Airport. For many years I tried to support Lansing's Capital Regional Airport by taking shuttle fights to and from DTW where ever possible. I gave up and started using Michigan Flyer's shuttle service given the limited and often unreliable flight service provided by Delta. In comparison, the responsiveness, reliability, convenience and very reasonable cost of Michigan Flyer's service has been excellent. The change of the drop off and pickup location for the service within the McNamara Terminal has been very inconvenient particularly when traveling with a large amount of luggage. I understand there are


many forms of transportation in and out of the terminal with limited space conveniently located to the entrance into the terminal. That said Michigan Flyer transports a large number of passengers and it is hard to see your decision to place Michigan Flyer's drop/pickup point at the very farthest point from the terminal entrance as not at least in part a reflection of the Flyer's competition with Delta's Lansing to Detroit shuttle service and private ground shuttle services that are apparently more lucrative to the Airport Authority. I have seen myself the significant inconvenience and potential danger this location has placed on a person with a disability attempting to get from the drop off point into the airport terminal. Your latest proposal to require two stops, on at a more convenient location for those riders with disabilities and the other very inconvenient location for the rest of the passengers is NOT an acceptable solution. It takes a bad situation and makes it even worse for the thousands of us who use the otherwise excellent shuttle service provided by Michigan Flyer. I strongly urge you to find a solution that treats both the riders with disabilities and other riders with respect and fairness we deserve. Sincerely, David J Solomon, PhD Professor Emeritus Michigan State University [email protected] Subject: New Regulations Affecting Michigan Flyer Service at Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) From: Linda Hall <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:30 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, Since the inception of Michigan Flyer service to DTW, riders have witnessed a continual erosion of cooperation between this valuable service and DTW in the name of "improved customer service." As a DTW user and generally concerned citizen, I ask that you start the process of working WITH Michigan Flyer to make this service as remarkable as it could be. This service not only reduces traffic at DTW, but also reduces traffic on already congested roads in Southeast Michigan, helps many individuals for whom driving is an issue, and most importantly reduces the carbon footprint for everyone involved. Separating drop-off locations, and thereby singling out disabled individuals, is not in the best interest of anyone. While we cannot know the political ramifications that must be involved, modeling this service after similar transportation services offered at other large airports would benefit everyone involved including the WCAA. Shared ridership is a growing and important trend for all of us. Sincerely, Linda Hall



Subject: Re: Detroit Metro Airport Plans to Expand Choices for Travelers with Disabilities From: Joyce Smith <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:16 pm To: Thomas Naughton <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Mr. Naughton This is not an improvement on the Michigan Flyer location because I am the one who has the handicap. My husband does not and he assists me when I travel. If I choose the location you describe for me, my husband will be at another location and that is unacceptable. If the closer location is available for me, why is it not available for ALL Michigan Flyer passengers? This is either political or just plain being used by some group interested in making Michigan Flyer passengers discontinue the service. Joyce M. Smith 1910 Creek Landing Haslett, MI 48840 On Thursday, March 3, 2016 4:16 PM, Thomas Naughton <[email protected]> wrote:

March 3, 2016 Dear Valued Traveler, I appreciate your previous interest in ground transportation operations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and would like to share some upcoming improvements our team is making to enhance service and ensure we are fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers. That service commitment …

Very truly yours, Thomas Naughton CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority Detroit Metropolitan Airport/Willow Run Airport

Subject: Detroit Metro Airport plans to expand choices for travelers with disabilities press release From: "Gaugush, Bruce" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:15 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>


The separate but unequal drop-off and pick-up locations announced in the press release treats people as two different classes of persons, even though those with disabilities are given preferential treatment in this case. It is still wrong and violates the principles of the ADA. My wife has had a knee replacement six weeks ago and is currently classed as disabled while she is recovering. How does she prove to you she is disabled? What card does she present to the driver to be able to get off the bus at the disabled stop? Is carrying a cane enough? Do we have to bring the Secretary of State issued disabled parking hanger tag that we use now for parking? Does she have to be in a wheelchair to qualify? What if everyone on the bus simply declares that they are disabled? What proof is needed and who is going to police this? This is a wrong-headed decision which treats traveling passengers differently and creates different classes of airline passengers based on how they arrive. Please try again to get this fixed right next time. Bruce Gaugush Information Technologist II Advancement Systems Michigan State University (MSU) Information Technology 535 Chestnut Road, Room 300 East Lansing, MI 48824-3482 517-884-7057 517-884-1219 fax [email protected] Subject: Re: DTW bus drop off pick up locations From: Ronald Lenz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:14 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, Thank you kindly for your prompt reply to my email. The information you provided reiterates the most recent steps taken - but does not answer my questions. May I first state that I fully understand and support that we must serve those with disabilities with the best possible service. The initial change many months ago caused everyone (including those with disabilities) who used the Michigan Flyer transportation means to begin using the Ground Transportation Center at the McNamara Terminal. This was a change from the prior practice of curb side drop off / pick up. One can only ask why such a change was made - at that time - that would negatively impact those with disabilities. This is hard to understand - given the requirements of the ADA are clearly common knowledge. I'm sure this change (several months ago) was made for certain reasons - but these reasons are not clear to me (or anyone else for that matter). Without a detailed explanation one is left to surmise what the motives may have been. Clearly the decision was undeniably rash - because the requirements of the ADA (now being addressed) were simply ignored at that time.



We must serve those with disabilities not only to the requirements of the ADA but to the best extent reasonably possible. Additionally we also have an obligation to serve those without disabilities in the same way - to the best extent that is reasonably possible. There are many public accommodations where those with disabilities and those without disabilities share common means. The perfect example is exactly the matter at hand, where all passengers (those with and without disabilities) using the Michigan Flyer were formerly able to share curb side drop off / pick up. This means for non-disabled people was taken away many months ago - without stated reason for cause. Is there rational or evidence that suggests that allowing all Michigan Flyer passengers (including those without disabilities) the superior means of curb side drop off / pick up is not in the best public interest? If such rational or evidence exists then, as a public servant charged with making decisions for the public good, it is your obligation to share this information. In summary, will you please answer these questions: 1) Is there evidence that indicates that all Michigan Flyer passengers (including those without disabilities) should not enjoy the superior means of curb side drop off / pick up? 2) If this evidence exists will you please share it? This is your obligation. 3) If this evidence does not exist - or if it does exist but does not withstand reasonable public scrutiny - what reason would prevent you from restoring curb side drop off / pick up for all Michigan Flyer passengers - as this is a clear benefit to the public good without any cost? Thank you for your service to the public. I look forward to your responses. And your demonstration of complete transparency. Ronald Lenz 1280 Starboard Dr. Okemos, MI 48864 Subject: Michigan Flyer at Detroit Metro Airport From: Joyce Smith <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:01 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Person in Charge I am 84 years old with two autoimmune diseases resulting in a handicap whereas I cannot walk long distances. I often use the Michigan Flyer to fly from Detroit to see my family in Baltimore, MD. My husband who does not have a handicap always accompanies me. If the new regulations are established allowing me to get off at one drop-off (pick-up) point at the airport and my husband at another, this would be an impossible situation. Please reconsider this action. If the International Terminal can be used


for persons with handicapping conditions, why can it not be used as the drop-off (pick-up) point for all Michigan Flyer passengers? It sounds like someone is playing dirty tricks and we have enough of that in other aspects of our lives already. Joyce M. Smith 1910 Creek Landing Haslett, MI 48840 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: mark dykman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:00 pm To: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> To whom it may concern: Michigan Flyer is the most reliable and convenient way to reach the airport from Lansing and from Ann Arbor. A large community of students and faculty of Michigan State University is using it on a regular basis. This is infinitely more reliable, more comfortable, takes less time, and is less expensive than flying Delta from Lansing to Detroit. I and other members of the MSU community whom I know are deeply disturbed by the way the WCAA is trying to eliminate the service. If Delta wants to compete with Michigan Flyer, it should provide a better service, not to prohibit the shuttle from making a stop at the McNamara terminal or requiring it to make several stops. Stop discrimination against Michigan Flyer! Yours sincerely, Mark Dykman Mark Dykman, Professor of Physics * ph.: (517)884-5634 (w) Department of Physics and Astronomy * FAX: (517)353-4500 Michigan State University * e-mail: [email protected] East Lansing, MI 48824-2320 * http://www.pa.msu.edu/~dykman Subject: Metro Airport's discriminatory actions aimed at Michigan Flyer From: Downs Herold <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:52 am To: [email protected], [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan and Mr. Naughton,


http://www.pa.msu.edu/~dykman

This is second time I have written when I learned of the Wayne County Metropolitan Airport Authority’s discriminatory action regarding the locations of the pick-up and drop-off locations for the Michigan Flyer’s coaches. As I stood last week at the North Terminal awaiting my coach I once again thought about the obvious discriminatory actions against Michigan Flyer. I could not help but conclude that the pick-up and drop-off locations at both terminals must be directly proportional to the fees paid to the Authority by the other ground transportation companies. Apparently the taxi and limo companies have successfully lobbied the Authority to make life as miserable as possible for passengers of tax supported Air Ride. I am now wondering how you will be able to determine license fees from Uber and Lyft passengers. They have already had a major impact on the taxi and limo companies so I am guessing that police at the airport will soon start to disrupt any Uber and Lyft passenger pick-ups. My plea is that you return to the original set-up for Air Ride that allowed pick-up and drop-offs at the low volume International Arrivals areas. This will place the coaches closer for any disabled passengers and will also eliminate the extra emissions that would be generated if Flyer and other carriers are required to make the circle around the terminals to maintain the two locations.i Will the police check to verify if a person is “disabled” ? All a taxi or limo driver has to do is tell their passenger(s) to request a disabled drop off and they can legally drop and pick-up customers at the designated closer locations (You will be amazed to find how many passengers claim the their eye-sight or gimpy knee qualify them for “disabled” status.) Your apparent discrimination toward Michigan Flyer has become very obvious and I would encourage they consider legal action by the and the Ann Arbor Transit Authority. Hoping for Sane Decisions. J. Downs Herold 556 Galen Circle Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734-665-6832 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Jennifer Graham Meyer <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:52 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] As a former frequent user of Michigan Flyer, I support its efforts to accommodate its passengers with and without disabilities. The airport's new regulations seem ill-conceived. I urge you to reconsider the regulations and change them to support public transportation and accessibility. Sincerely, Jennifer Meyer


Subject: Re: Detroit Metro Airport Plans to Expand Choices for Travelers with Disabilities From: Solomon Stehle <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:35 am To: Thomas Naughton <[email protected]> This seems to be another attempt on the part of the Airport Authority to harass services such as the MichiganFlyer. I cannot believe the Airport Authority is now requesting that two stops be made--one for people without disabilities and another, closer stop, for disabled persons. I simply cannot understand the rationale behind this other than being an attempt to make the services of MichiganFlyer less attractive to its customers. Are you trying to drive business from DTW by this continual reassignment of places ground transportation vehicles are allowed to stop? Eighteen months ago, waiting inside the Ground Transportation Services door was convenient for both the able-bodied and the disabled. You then forced us to either wait outside or rush to the location of the bus stop once we saw the bus arriving. This has been inconvenient for everyone and could be a safety issue with all the traffic in that area. Who is going to determine who is disabled and able to disembark closer to the door? I cannot begin to imagine how this is thought to be any type of improvement. I urge you to put the location of the stop as it was eighteen months ago and stop trying to negatively impact the excellent service of the MichiganFlyer. Subject: Ground transportation regulations for Michigan Flyer From: Marian Smith [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:34 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> The regulations that have been imposed upon travellers arriving and departing the McNamara Terminal who arrive and depart via the Michigan Flyer are ridiculous. Since the new regulations were imposed nearly 18 months ago, I have attempted to fly a different airline, however, there are times I must fly Delta. I have observed travellers waiting, and freezing, in the bitter cold, not to mention getting wet during a rain storm. It is also extremely difficult for people with crutches, walkers, and other walking aids to walk that distance and cross the road. I turn 80 this year, and am not looking forward to flying Delta later this month. The new, assigned, drop off and pick up for Delta and Air France travellers is simply ridiculous. I'm sure the WCAA can find a way to immensely improve the arrangement that currently exists. Marian Smith



Subject: Wayne County Airport Authority--Puzzling New Regulation From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:29 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: Two days ago, the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) issued a press release with the headline “Detroit Metro Airport plans to expand choices for travelers with disabilities.” Although the announcement trumpeted the convenience of the new, separate drop-off and pick-up options for people with disabilities, it failed to mention the fact that all public transportation passengers, including those with disabilities, enjoyed an even more convenient and accessible location 18 months ago. Among my many concerns about the new regulations are that they would:

1) Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.”

2) Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. 3) Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities 4) Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in my view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. Sincerely yours, Vince Spagnuolo Attorney and regular user of Michigan Flyer Services Subject: Michigan Flyer stops at Detroit Metro--Passenger Voice From: "Waara, Carol" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:24 am


To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Respectfully, the original bus stop and waiting room for the Michigan Flyer at Detroit Metro was the only bright spot for me when I traveled from Albany New York to visit my elderly mother in Lansing for her birthdays. Like many, I have grown to hate air travel, and as a 63-year-old, discovering the comfort and convenience of the Michigan Flyer service felt like I was being treated like a human being again. Truthfully, I love Detroit Metro airport--in part for the Japanese restaurant where I often purchased sushi to go, ate it in the waiting room, and blissfully caught the Michigan Flyer just outside the door. I saw families and people with disabilities relax a little there, interact, and form a kind of temporary community that actually felt like helping one another. "Michigan Nice" thrived there. Last year I chose to drive instead, for various reasons, but seriously, hearing about the new outdoor bus stop for non-disabled passengers is tipping me toward driving again this year and for as long as I can. The decision to move the stop feels like another inhumane aspect of flying, complete disregard for the spirit and intent of the American with Disabilities Act (for heaven's sake--segregating us all?? really??? ) and the loss of all good feeling I had for Detroit Metro. I can skip the Japanese restaurant. So how much of a financial loss does my driving instead of flying into Metro amount to? Add up others who feel the same. I think your financial loss and the loss of passenger goodwill will prove to be very great. Sincerely, Carrie Waara Professor of History Coordinator, Global Studies Program 256 Leavenworth Hall Castleton University Castleton, Vermont 05735 802-468-1395 (o) [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:23 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Whom it May Concern, I ride the Michigan Flyer. It is a wonderful service provided by folks in the Lansing Area. I just rode this past Wednesday, March 2. The company is extremely professional and customer friendly.



I have helped numerous folks with disabilities. Unless you have experience with the broad range of disabilities, you will NEVER understand the countless obstacles that there still are out there not just for them, but, for the general public. Folks with oxygen absolutely could not tolerate the conditions that you expect them to navigate at Detroit Metro. Weather conditions and convenience are particularly critical for these folks. I am appalled, but frankly not surprised, that your airport management would cause continual issues for this professional transportation service whose mission is to transport folks as seamlessly as possible to and from the airport. But, to segregate the disabled is the rudest possible attack on not just this professional service, but, on the individuals involved as well. It tells me that the management has no personal experience in addressing this population. When I traveled this past week, it was from Tampa to Detroit. The staff at that airport could not have been more customer service friendly. Looks like you folks need to step it up a notch and not be known as a non-customer friendly airport. You should be embracing the fact that a service such as Michigan Flyer is ahead of the game in bringing you business. Subject: Additional Pick Up and Drop Off Spots at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Helen Chynoweth" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:22 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr McGowan, I am writing to voice my concerns over the proposed additional stop for passengers with disabilities. Up until eighteen months ago, pick up and drop off was at the International Arrival Level of the McNamara Terminal and was very convenient for all passengers. The airport decided to relocate the spot for ‘safety and convenience’ of passengers. The current spot is neither safe nor convenient. This has brought a hardship to all passengers, not just disabled passengers. I do not believe it is correct to discriminate against disabled passengers in this way. If the Airport is willing to drop off at a different spot, then all passengers should be allowed to get off at that spot. Separate but equal is not acceptable. Thank you, Helen Chynoweth Subject: Regulations concerning ground transportation at Wayne County Airport From: Solomon Stehle <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:21 am


To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, Michiganflyer Info <[email protected]> Mr.McGowan, I have just learned of the new ground transportation regulations at the Wayne County Airport. What is the Airport Authority thinking??? This new regulation to make services such as the MichiganFlyer stop two times at both terminals seems ludicrous to me. I have utilized the services of the MichiganFlyer several times in the past and have watched your attempts to undercut this service for the past several months. Eighteen months ago people utilizing the DTW for flights were able to wait inside the Ground Transportation Center (door 402, I think was the exact location). This was both convenient and comfortable for persons with and without disabilities. Persons with disabilities were able to receive aid from others also waiting on the arrival of the MichiganFlyer, if necessary. At the very least, it provided them the opportunity to interact with others while waiting. You then required the MichiganFlyer to stop several feet away from the door, necessitating a customer to either wait outside, or if waiting inside, to rush to that location when the bus arrived. This was particularly unwise for those with disabilities. I feel there could also be a safety issue with this location. If I understand this new regulation correctly, you are now going to request that the MichiganFlyer make TWO stops at each terminal; one to let persons with disabilities disembark, the second stop for everyone else's departure. In addition to this having an adverse effect upon the schedule of the MichiganFlyer, I think it is insulting to those disabled users of the service. My husband has cardiac difficulties and walking sometimes wears him out. Is he going to need to obtain a statement from his doctor to prove he is disabled since his handicap is not visible? Would I then be told I cannot disembark with him and need to go to the further stop? I urge you to think through the ramifications of these regulations and rescind them. It is my feeling this is harassment on your part, trying to encourage those of us utilizing the service of the MichiganFlyer drive to DTW, park our cars in your lot, and either pay to have valet parking or be forced to walk quite a distance to get into the airport terminals. Are you trying to drive customers away? Kathryn Stehle Subject: Added Location for Michigan Flyer - Air Ride From: "Kevin McGuinness" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:19 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>


About 18 months ago, DTW moved The Michigan Flyer-Air Ride stop to the furthest possible location away from the McNamara Terminal—at the far south end of the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in the parking garage across the road. According to the WCAA, this “improves customer service” and was done for “safety” reasons (despite concerns expressed by Michigan’s governor, attorney general, the state transportation commission, and protests by hundreds of our passengers, many of whom consider the GTC location unsafe and inaccessible). Why is the WCAA continuing to fight accommodating public transportation at the airport that makes the use less congested for all? Why are they wasting their resources litigating against a rational approach that is good for the most people? Why does the airport continue to make it difficult for people to use mass transit to get to the airport? I remember the days when mass transit advertising was not allowed at the airport. The airport seems to have an “agenda” against public transportation in favor of other transportation providers that contract with the airport and parking, which also provides revenue . The claims that the previous close curb side pickup was dangerous are ludicrous without any factual evidence. . More mass transportation to the airport would reduce the terribly congested and unsafe pick up by private cars, which is much more unsafe than the supposed unsafe curbside pickups of the mass transit. Why are not more changes being made to make the pick up by car safer. People are getting in and out of cars 10 yards away from the curb will other cars are trying to get away from the curb. I have seen cars lines and back up coming to pick up passengers at a standstill a quarter of a mile away from the terminal. I believe there needs to be a state oversight of the airport operation. The people making the decisions today are not making them in the interest of the public at large. If the airport can let disabled people off at the new stops they can let everyone off there instead of punishing mass transit by requiring them to make two different stops slowing their schedule and making it more inefficient to punish them and the public that use them. When is the WCAA going to show some common sense and stop fighting this? Do the right thing. Subject: Fwd: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Leon Webster <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:19 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, As a repeat customer to the Michigan Flyer bus service to DTW, I received an email informing me of plans to make bus access remote and inconvenient with an exception for disabled passengers an accommodation that introduces further delay. When I was a student at the U of M I was shocked to find out how difficult and expensive it is to get from the airport to Ann Arbor, and how convoluted it is to get from there to Detroit, and was very happy when the Flyer made that much easier. I don't know how true it might be, but it feels like the airport, and airports in general, marginalize public transportation in an effort to promote more expensive means such as taxis and rental cars. I hope you will agree that even if that's not the intent of the rules, appearances matter, and I urge you to make public transit to


the airport as convenient, timely, and inexpensive as possible. Please allow the flyer to pick up at the international arrivals terminal. Not only will it provide options for those of limited means, and reduce environmental impact of ground transit, but it will make travelers happier to fly. Sincerely, Leon Webster Subject: Plan to add additional Michigan Flyer stops at each DTW terminal From: Craig Stephan <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:18 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan: I protested against the WCAA's requiring the Michigan Flyer bus service to move its pickup/dropoff location from the International Arrivals curb of the McNamara terminal to its current remote spot at the south end of the Ground Transportation Center, and I protest again your latest plan to require two separate stops at each terminal, one for disabled passengers and another for able-bodied ones. I'm 72, and although not disabled, I certainly can sympathize with a disabled person's having to make the long walk, with baggage, to the terminal from the current location. I understand, though, that disabled people's organizations feel this planned change is unsatisfactory. It certainly would make for very inefficient service. Instead, I believe you should return the McNamara terminal pickup/dropoff spot to its previous location, a single spot convenient for *all* passengers; and similarly choose a single convenient spot for the North terminal. Regarding specifically the McNamara spot, my understanding is that there were never any incidents that would indicate that the location was unsafe. Craig Stephan 2752 Holyoke Lane Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Subject: Michigan flyer From: Paul Shaheen <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:16 am To: [email protected] Please fix the access issue so the buses can get close to the terminals. Paul Subject: Michigan Flyer - pending change in drop off location/procedure From: Brian Hudson <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:10 am


To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, I respect the difficult balancing act you have to pull off every day. You have a lot of decisions to make relative to generating revenue to fund your operations while keeping the airport safe for everyone. I frequently use Michigan Flyer from Lansing but really object to having to walk so far (especially during the winter) to get to the terminal. I'm not what you'd call disabled but walking that distance while pulling bags is difficult for me. Please reconsidering where you're asking them drop off & load passengers. You want people using your airport (instead of Lansing or GR) but you're making it more difficult than it needs to be by requiring Michigan Flyer to drop off & load so far away. Respectfully, Brian Hudson Grand Ledge, MI Subject: Bus Stops at DTW From: James Wessel Walker <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:10 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The Michigan Flyer provides convenient, inexpensive, and fast transportation to and from the airport for residents of Ann Arbor and Lansing. Buses are better for the environment than private cars or taxis. Buses do not require vast parking lots. Why is WCAA doing everything it can to discourage use of the Michigan Flyer by making the disembarking and boarding at the airport as inconvenient as possible? The comfort and convenience of travellers should be more important than the revenue from parking and car rental companies. James Wessel Walker 3007 Geddes Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734 996-0129 Subject: Michigan Flyer Rules Change From: Carroll Lutz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:04 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], info <[email protected]>


"Separate but [not] equal" facilities? I thought we had killed that with opening public schools to all. Who does the airport think it is serving? Carroll Lutz Subject: You have made the PUBLIC bus UNREACHABLE for us and senior citizens to at the Mc NAMARA terminal DETROIT AITPORT international terminal DTW. Have you never been disabled or handicapped personally? From: Erig Muzaffer <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:02 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] My.McGowan, Please PUT BACK the public bus back to where it was in INTERNATIONAL terminal. It seems you never think about protecting disabled people. Have you never been disabled? You are very INGRATE and SELFISH if you are adding to the misery of the US seniors at the international terminal arrivals and departures of DTW by putting the stop to the UNREACHABLE end. I hope you will RIGHT your WRONG doing ASAP. IF you are on CRUTCHES then you will understand the misery you have created for the low income Seniors and injured citizens. I hope to see you and tell these to your face in the presence of public bus AIRRIDE passenger/users Citizen M. Erig 734 272 6838 Subject: New Rules for the Michigan Flyer From: SHARON MONOD <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:02 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Greetings,


I wish to comment on the new rules the Wayne County Airport Authority wants to impose on the Michigan Flyer by forcing their drivers to make two pickup/delivery stops at the airport: one for "normal" folks, and another for the handicapped. This is burdonsome and time-consuming for the Flyer and the traveler. It also violates the ADA which "recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing seguegated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second class citizens." It makes sense to me to go back to using the International Arrivals Curb of DTWs McNamara Terminal. There was never a safety incident there, it was convenient and accessible for all. The Michigan Flyer provides a great service. I don't use it more than a couple times a year between East Lansing and DTW, but greatly appreciate it. Sincerely Sharon Monod Lansing, MI Subject: Air Ride Multiple stops From: "Kaden A. Milkovich" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:01 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, As an avid Air Ride user (10+ times a year) I am sorely disappointed with the way in which DTW ground transportation management has sought to hamper the ability of Indian Trails/Air Ride to provide affordable and convenient airport drop-off services to consumers who wish to use public transportation. I, like many other Michiganders, want to be able to get to and from the airport with minimal hassle and convenience. The latest development of implementing multiple terminal stops—one that is ostensibly billed as “ADA-accessible” while continuing to require that all other passengers disembark at the supremely inconvenient south end of the Ground Transportation Center is yet another disappointing development to hamper the utilization of public transportation for those of us who don’t wish to pay $70 to get to and from the metro airport or pay very expensive rates for daily parking. Previously, all public transportation passengers, including those with disabilities, enjoyed an even more convenient and accessible location 18 months ago. It seems to me that efforts to curtail usage of this bus service affords only private transportation services that are exorbitantly expensive and inconvenient. Further, I don't wish to navigate a new driver to my home every time I need to get from the airport and Air Ride affords me the luxury of affordable and timely drop off and pick up without any of this. I urge you to consider reinstating the original drop


off and pickup locations for AirRide consumers to promote public transportation and make DTW as relevant as our fellow international airports that strongly support public transportation methods. Kaden Milkovich 1570 Woodland Dr. Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Subject: Poor Practices for Disabled Passengers at DTW From: Joseph Sutkowi <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 11:01 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, I was disappointed yesterday to learn about additional changes to Michigan Flyer service at Detroit Metro Airport, especially given your public comment deadline and the lack of publicity for it. The decision to force an additional stop for disabled passengers is both impractical and disrespectful for those passengers. You force them to "out" themselves as disabled or needing special consideration or assistance, putting many in an uncomfortable position. The segregated facilities/stop will give them the appearance of being second-class citizens and unequal to those with better mobility. Your claims that these changes are coming to make the lives of disabled passengers easier are laughable when a year ago the drop off point for the Michigan Flyer shuttle was at a more convenient place for all passengers. The initial decision to move the shuttle to the furthest point you could, allegedly for safety reasons, but really because you caved to the taxi lobby, has lost you the respect of many travelers. This latest move will add time and congestion to the trip and drop-off concourse. Please reconsider your decisions to better accommodate and encourage mass transit participation which is better for the environment, more economical, and more convenient for your passengers. Promoting anything else over that is a disservice to them, especially those with disabilities. Thank you for your time, Joseph Sutkowi University of Michigan American Red Cross Young Nonprofit Professionals Network Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra (734) 272-7324 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: "Donna Gainer" <[email protected]>


Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:59 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> To Whom It May Concern: The current drop-off and pick-up destination at Metro Airport is inconvenient and unfair to Michigan Flyer users. The former assigned location worked very well. Why on earth was it moved? Supposedly for safety reasons? The new location is far less safe on multiple levels and far more inconvenient. The proposed new regulation to accommodate handicapped users is RIDICULOUS! I am an 80-year old user of this service. I can claim disability because of my age and limited ability to walk very far. However, to avail myself of the privilege, to exit I will have to bypass many younger riders, anxious to catch their flight, while the bus driver helps me (and other deserving “handicapped” riders) off and unloads my (our) luggage before moving the bus to the current assigned drop-off/pick-up location. This new move really does not solve a problem, it just complicates it! The Michigan Flyer provides a wonderful, much needed service for out-state residents. We used to fly out of Grand Rapids, Flint or Lansing to avoid Metro—then we didn’t have to. The airport should bend over backwards to accommodate Michigan Flyer’s service and passengers. Donna Gainer 2425 Emerald Lake Drive East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 351-2108 [email protected] Subject: Re: Please reinstate curbside pickups/dropoffs for everyone From: Emma Wendt <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:59 am To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan and Mr. Naughton, While I appreciate the quick reply, I was in fact writing to contest the exact change you proposed in your email below. Could you please respond to this request directly, rather than a canned answer that doesn't address my question? Sincerely, Emma Wendt On Fri, Mar 4, 2016 at 10:50 AM, Matt McGowan <[email protected]> wrote:

March 3, 2016



Dear Valued Traveler, I appreciate your previous interest in ground transportation operations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and would like to share some upcoming improvements our team is making to enhance service and ensure we are fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers. … Very truly yours, Thomas Naughton CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority Detroit Metropolitan Airport/Willow Run Airport

On Mar 4, 2016, at 10:50 AM, Emma Wendt <[email protected]> wrote: > Dear Mr. McGowan, > > As a frequent user of Michigan Flyer to travel to and from DTW, and a currently able-bodied person, I'm writing to request that you reinstate the pickup/dropoff location at the International Arrivals curb for all passengers. > > I find it insensitive and inconvenient for everyone, let alone directly contrary to the Americans with Disability Act, to offer separate services to those with disabilities. Finding the bus location can be challenging as it is, and this change would make it even more confusing for customers. > > I look forward to seeing an updated curbside pickup/drop-off location for all passengers of Michigan Flyer. > > Sincerely, > Emma Wendt Subject: New Pick-up/Drop-Off Regs for Michigan Flyer From: Ken <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:58 am To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sirs, My daughter and I utilize this wonderful bus service from DTW to Ann Arbor frequently when we fly from LGA. It provides efficient and inexpensive means to get to and fro the airport. Why on earth the stop was moved further away from the terminal I do not know. While my daughter does not qualify for service under the ADA, she has had leg surgery a couple of years ago and any increased distance to manage with baggage is, quite frankly, just that much more pain to deal with.


Regardless of my daughter's issue, use of public transportation should be a priority and encouraged. As a traveler (and former airport employee) with extensive experience with worldwide airport transportation, I have always found the Michigan Flyer service top-notch. You may take it for granted in Michigan, but I can tell you that you probably do not know how good it is. Please do not degrade it! Kenneth Leibowitz Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations at DTW From: Katie daCruz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:50 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I am writing to express my concern regarding the new ground transportation regulations enacted by the WCAA at DTW airport that changes where ground transportation services can drop off customers unless they have a disability. The following are my concerns. Most importantly, these changes violate the ADA. The ADA's spirit is to provide services that are integrated. It clearly prohibits the type of segregated services to persons with disabilities that are being enforced with these regulations. In addition, this will force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to transportation companies in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals which is inappropriate. I strongly urge you to rethink these proposed changes. Katelin daCruz, M.A. Doctoral Candidate in School Psychology, Michigan State University Master Coach, Michigan Education Corps Subject: regulations for Michigan Flyer transportation stop at DTW airport From: Kiren <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:45 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. Matt McGowan of the WCAA,


Please do not adopt new regulations that require that disabled passengers dis-embark the Michigan Flyer Bus at a separate location from other bus passengers at DTW airport. "Separate but equal" is NOT the meaning of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I ride the Michigan Flyer bus regularly to DTW and back home to East Lansing. I request that you re-instate the bus drop-off/pick-up point at the McNamara Terminal to be at the International Arrivals curbside. I request that you do not adopt new regulations that discriminate further against disabled passengers. Sincerely, Kiren Ghei Williamston, Michigan Subject: Michigan Flyer / Metro Airport From: victoria burke <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:45 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> The concerns of Michigan Flyer are valid regarding the change in the airport drop-off points. Their current practice and process for providing services to people at the airport are helpful and serve all customers very well. I support this proposed change be dismissed and that any potential politics, hidden agendas or or financial greed not be allowed. Sincerely, Victoria Burke Subject: WCAA ground transportation "improvements" From: "Allison Stieber" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:36 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan: Who is WCAA trying to fool? Your latest proposed “improvements” for the once smoothly functioning Michigan Flyer bus service, which so many of us, including me, relied on before WCAA capriciously exiled its arrival/departure point, in September 2014, to the most remote location imaginable in the McNamara Terminal, are an insult, and belie the “valued customers” salutation of your e-mail update. The current Flyer location isn’t an option for me; I have severe hip arthritis and can’t navigate this distance with luggage. My medical issue, however, doesn’t rise to the level of a true disability – many of your “valued customers” are likely similarly afflicted – nor would I feel comfortable designating it as


such. Even leaving that aside, the tiny waiting area, with its exposure to the elements and exhaust fumes and its lack of amenities, is totally unacceptable. Thanks to WCAA, it’s now a much more stressful, more costly experience to travel between Boston, where I live, and East Lansing, where my mother, who died last fall, resided, as I must juggle my incoming Delta flight time to allow me to link to a small connector plane for the second leg of the journey. The narrow timeframe between the two flights often entails having to traverse vast expanses of slow “moving walkways” with not a moment to spare. If WCAA truly valued its customers it wouldn’t have subjected them to these conditions in the first place. Evidently it was more important to WCAA to stick it to the Michigan Flyer until the company is driven out of business. I’m about to take a fourth trip to Michigan since 9/2014 that does not include the Flyer, due to the reasons given above. There are bound to be numerous others who feel the same way. I do not expect WCAA to do the right thing anymore; it’s too mired in mendacity. My hope is that the legal system will force what would be the only real improvement, that being to return the Flyer’s pickup/dropoff point to its rightful place. Allison Stieber Boston, MA Subject: WCAA Ground Transportation Regulations for DTW Airport From: Ali Sharman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:31 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. Matt McGowan, As a regular user of Michigan Flyer, I am disappointed to hear of the new regulations that would require Michigan Flyer to make two stops at each terminal in order to drop off and pick up passengers. While I support making the bus more accessible to seniors and people with disabilities, these regulations make no sense. If the bus is already allowed to stop at one location to pick up people, it should be able to pick up all people. Michigan Flyer is the only bus service providing residents of the areas of East Lansing and Ann Arbor with a reliable, low-cost option to get to and from the DTW airport. As such, it should be treated as public good. The WCAA should work with Michigan Flyer rather than against it, especially when there is no real reason not to. Please reconsider the new ground regulations for DTW so that all passengers can be picked up in one safe, accessible place at each terminal. Sincerely, Mary Sharman


Subject: "New Regulations" involving Michigan Flyer/Indian Trails drop off locations at Metro Airport From: Rita Daza [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:31 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I use this mode of transportation from East Lansing to Detroit Metro approximately 20 times per year. I am getting older and find travel exhausting and dangerous to my declining health. To look at me does not appear that I am in poor health but those matters are discretely hidden inside my body. My husband is in better health than I am and sometimes, 2 halves make a whole. My health issues are my business and HIPPA privacy laws support that. If I understand correctly, I could be dropped off in a separate location from my husband. This is simply ridiculous. Why stress travelers more. Why 2 stops? How much of a problem would it be to clear the entire bus at once? Would it be minutes, seconds? 2 stops disrupt the flow of traffic instead of improve. There has got to be a better way. At this point, I just need clarification on "disabilities". What constitutes disabled. Age, numerous health issues, difficulty in ambulation, wheelchair, walker, cane, respiratory issues. On the surface it appears that DTW just wants to pacify MI Flyer/Indian Trails (ADA) and instead it just makes everyone a little bit more confused and angry. Too many changes make air travel a little bit more complicated. Maybe too complicated. Please fix this please. Subject: (no subject) From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:31 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: Gack. This latest effort to make things difficult for Michigan Flyer (MF) and its customers is truly troubling. I have taken the Flyer many times to/from Ann Arbor. This is an excellent, convenient, affordable, much-needed service. I cannot fathom the airport's efforts to make this difficult for MF customers. Is the airport in bed with taxi drivers or airport "limos"? This just doesn't make any sense. The MF bus stops for a few minutes to board and unload passengers. What's the harm in that? Can't we all claim a "disability" and get off at the convenient stop, rather than going 200 yards farther lugging our suitcases and travel gear?! I'm not very good with arithmetic, but isn't that TWO FOOTBALL FIELDS? This is Michigan, folks, where traipsing through 200 yards of winter weather can be a huge for a healthy, unencumbered customer. I'm a senior citizen and not yet "disabled," but if DTW/WCAA has its way, I might be sooner than I'd like.



Please stop targeting MF. We customers would greatly appreciate the convenience we'd come to expect from MF and why we started supporting it in the first place. I would be happy to discuss this with you further. Thank you for reading. Yours truly, Patti Maki Ann Arbor 734-646-0389 Subject: one stop for all From: Peter von Buelow <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:28 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt McGowan, As someone who rides the Michigan Flyer bus from the DTW airport I would like to ask that we be able to board at the more convenient bus stop we used up until about a year and a half ago. This bus service is certainly a step in the right direction to reduce traffic and provide a more sustainable alternative to private autos. You should do all you can to encourage its use and success. Furthermore, to establish separate stops for handicapped users seems needlessly complex. Keep it simple (KISS) would certainly be worth considering. Peter von Buelow [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Roman Hryciw <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:23 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, Please add my name to those protesting the ridiculous two-stop solution for The Michigan Flyer at DTW. It's insane to have regular passengers stay on the bus while only handicapped passengers get off at the terminal. Where is the logic in this? It's wasteful, unfair, unsafe and unsustainable. I see no logical rationale for this supposed "solution". As a Michigan resident, taxpayer, employee, voter and regular user of the Michigan Flyer, I have been seriously inconvenienced, and even placed in danger, by its banishment to the present remote location. Please allow the service to return to its original drop-off and pick-up location.



Sincerely, Roman D. Hryciw Professor of Civil Engineering University of Michigan Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations From: "Melissa Hagen" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:21 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan – As an employment law attorney, I find your segregated ground transportation policy offensive and illegal. As a resident of Lansing who uses the Michigan Flyer to access Detroit Metro Airport, I am angry with your decision to move the pick up and drop off stop for the Flyer. From all the appears, you do not value your Lansing customers. The move does not “improve customer service.” Melissa Hagen [email protected] Subject: changes re: Michigan Flyer pick up and drop off From: Laura Julier <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:11 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt McGowan and WCAA, I’ve come to rely on Michigan Flyer. All my colleagues talk about flying out of DTW as cheaper and more convenient, now that Michigan Flyer exists, than flying out of Lansing. With the almost door-to-door convenience provided by Michigan Flyer, I’ve been changing my flying habits and allowing the Michigan State University travel office to book my flights as they prefer out of DTW. But the last time I flew I noticed some changes. For one thing, no one could find the Michigan Flyer drop off and pick up site. No signage at the airport. No signage at the parking space. A long walk in the cold out to a space open to the wind and ice. No visibility from the closed in lobby to see if the bus had arrived. Now I hear that you’re making it even harder, and by making the bus stop twice—once for people with disabilities and once for everyone else—you’re adding time to the trips. I’m going back to flying out of Lansing. I’ve never had any trouble and the convenience is far greater than using the Michigan Flyer.



The changes you’ve made are not an improvement. Sincerely, Prof. Laura Julier Editor, Fourth Genre: Explorations in Nonfiction Director, Professional Writing Program Associate Chair, Department of Writing, Rhetoric, & American Cultures 434 Farm Lane, Rm. 235 Bessey Hall Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 517-355-2400 Subject: Fwd: Michigan Flyer drop off points From: Christine Van Nada <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:01 am To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Christine Van Nada <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 4, 2016 at 10:00 AM Subject: Michigan Flyer drop off points To: [email protected] As a resident of East Lansing, I have often used the Michigan Flyer bus service to and from the Detroit Wayne County Airport. In fact, the existence of this reliable and convenient bus service is the only reason we are willing to fly to and from DTW at all. We consider the unpredictability of highway travel between Lansing and Detroit to add an unwarranted amount of stress and wasted time to our trips. Without Michigan Flyer bus service, we will always pay more to fly from Lansing, Grand Rapids, or Flint before being willing to fly out of Detroit. That being said, it would seem to be in the best interests of the WCAA to provide Michigan Flyer passengers with the safest, most convenient, most accessible drop off and pick up points possible. The idea of making separate stops for the disabled and the non-disabled seems entirely wrong-headed, as it deprives those with disabilities of the camaraderie and assistance of able-bodied strangers traveling in the same direction. The idea of separate stops is a serious deterrent to the physically disabled who desire to travel solo, and, as most of us able-bodied do, depend on the safety of moving with a group, and the occasional helping hand to lift a bag or assist with a difficult door or a recalcitrant mobility device. Please reconsider the idea of separate stops for the disabled, and consider restoring the safe, close, convenient drop off points that customers of Michigan Flyer (all customers of the Detroit/Wayne County airport as well) have enjoyed in the past. Thank you, Christine Van Nada


302 Cowley Ave. East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: DTW Michigan Flyer regulations are unduly onerous From: Martha Krieg <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 10:00 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I have followed with concern the changes in regulations on the stops the Michigan Flyer makes at DTW. It makes no sense to have two separate stops, one for passengers with a disability and another for those without. It exposes those with an "invisible" disability (such as a heart condition) to harassment similar to what they face when people do not believe they are entitled to park in a handicap spot, and singles them out, thus violating the purpose of the ADA. The requirement that the disabled passenger pre-arrange the pickup at a separate location could lead to confusion and missed connections, especially if the disability affects reasoning, planning ability, or memory; it will also lead to confusion and possible resentment when some members of a traveling party are disabled and others are not. I myself am a senior citizen, but not disabled. I found the original stop outside the baggage claim area to be a SAFE and CONVENIENT place to wait for the Michigan Flyer. Why would I want to have to walk dragging my baggage and loaded down with a backpack 600 feet down the sidewalk and wait exposed to the elements? Or why would a family with young children want to have to do that? It almost seems as though the airport authority is attempting to make it difficult for the Michigan Flyer to operate, rather than being concerned about the safety and convenience of the flying public. With the crowding of individual cars at the pickup lanes, making it easier to use the Michigan Flyer would only improve the passenger experience of the airport facilities. Martha Krieg Michigan USA Subject: Re: Detroit Metro Airport group transport regulations From: "Mittig, Wolfgang" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:56 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" [email protected] Dear Sir, This message is to express my concern on the new ground transport regulations at the Detroit Metro Airport. I’m user of Michigan Flyer between East Lansing and the Detroit airport since many years and



can express i) first, my insatisfaction regarding the changes happened 18 months ago on the stop of the Flyer in the airpot and ii) second, my concerned regarding the new WCAA regulations Which obliges multiple stops of the bus. I agree with the Michigan Flyer point of view and copy the following: “"The new regulation violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. “” With no doubt, the previous stop (18 months ago) was convenient and provided accessibility to all passengers without discrimination. Cordially, Wolfgang Mittig Hannah Professor National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory Michigan State University 640 South Shaw Lane East Lansing, MI 48824-132 tel: 1-517.908.7329 e-mail: [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer at DTW From: Steve Harris <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:55 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan…



I am a resident of the State of Michigan for about 7 months of the year and I am a property owner. Since its inception, I have regularly had occasion to use the very fine and convenient services of the Michigan Flyer to go from Jackson (when it was available there) or Ann Arbor to and from DTW. I have watched overtime as the Michigan Flyer seems to have been treated as “a step-child” rather than as a valuable business asset for DTW and one which provides a great service to residents of Michigan and visitors to Michigan at a reasonable price. In all the times I have ridden I have always been treated professionally and on each and every occasion the bus has arrived or departed right on schedule like clockwork. I certainly do not suggest that I understand all facets of the issue…perhaps it is better that way. I do understand that if I were the owner/operator of DTW that I would welcome a business which has been and is run like the Michigan Flyer and I would do everything to provide a reasonable, convenient and safe location at both terminals for pickups and departures. Why should the Hertz or Avis or Enterprise or private transportation companies be treated more preferentially than the Michigan Flyer. I respectfully request you advocate and support the Michigan Flyer being treated as an equal and it being provide one reasonable, convenient and safe location for pickup and departure for all of its riders where they need assistance or not. Thank you for your courtesy in considering. Steve Harris Clark Lake, Michigan Stephen D Harris Geddy Harris Franck & Hickman, LLP 1177 Jamestown Road (PO Box 379) Williamsburg, VA 23185 (23187) Phone: 757-229-2393 Fax: 757-229-5342 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ghfhlaw.com Subject: Quite Playing Games with the Customers of the Michigan Flyer From: Ed Church <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:53 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I respectfully request that the Wayne County Airport Authority stop playing games with the customers of the Michigan Flyer of which I am one. The airport should strive for convenience for all airport flyers


http://www.ghfhlaw.com/

no matter how the arrive at the airport. Until 18 months ago the system worked fine and you had to go and require a change. When we objected you just played hard ball for no apparent reason, unless some other service providers at the airport influenced the WCAA authorities. Now you continue to play games with your still unreasonable solution to the legal activities we had to bring forth to get things back to being reasonable. Edward A. Church President Emeritus [email protected] 517.333.3437 x211 www.ista.org ISTA 1400 Abbot Road Suite 160 East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: Proposed new drop off, pickup regulations for Michigan Flyer buses, March 2016 From: Laurie Dunlap <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:51 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I use the Michigan Flyer bus for transportation from East Lansing to DTW. I urge you to make one convenient stop at each terminal that would accommodate all travelers, those with disabilities and those who are not disabled. Elderly people who are not necessarily disabled use this bus service. I'm one of them. Drop off and pickup as close as possible to the terminal entrance for check in and baggage claim would serve all of us who use this service. To do anything else is discrimination. I urge you to rethink the change you are about to implement. It will not be helpful or convenient for travelers, whether disabled, elderly, or able bodied. Laurie Dunlap Michigan Flyer Customer Subject: New Regulations Affecting Michigan Flyer From: Nellie Kim <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:51 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt McGowan: Michigan Flyer for many years loaded and unloaded Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. It was safe, convenient, and accessible for all


passengers—including seniors and people with disabilities. There was never a safety incident. All public transportation passengers, including those with disabilities, enjoyed an even more convenient and accessible location 18 months ago. Please change it back to the way it was. Your change has made it difficult for hundreds of people who want to safely and conveniently get to and from the airport. Sincerely, Nellie Scott Subject: new drop-off points for passengers From: Judith Becker <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:48 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To whom it may concern, I am 83-years old and am a frequent flyer. While I might qualify as disabled due to my age (?), I think it is unfair to penalize all other passengers by dropping them off so far from the entrance. Sincerely, Professor Emerita Judith Becker Subject: Proposed regulations at DTW From: Gary Schnakenberg <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:43 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Whom It May Concern- I send this message to strongly protest the pending changes that are being applied to the Michigan Flyer bus service at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. I believe that the requirements for prior notification of disability and separate stops violate the Americans With Disabilities Act, in both spirit and word. I am also concerned about the manner of 'notification' and invitation of public comment, which seem to be designed to minimize knowledge until the changes are about to go into effect. As a citizen who has used the Flyer and appreciated its service greatly, and who is more generally concerned with the overall abysmal level of inexpensive and good public transportation in this region and the country as a whole, I think that these proposed changes are deplorable. Sincerely, Gary R. Schnakenberg, Ph.D. Academic Advisor and Instructor, Department of Geography


Michigan State University 673 Auditorium Rd. 104 Geography East Lansing, MI 48824 [email protected] 517-353-9875 Subject: FW: Public comment From: "Anderson, Gary" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:43 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> FYI From: Anderson, Gary Sent: Friday, March 04, 2016 9:41 AM To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] Subject: Public comment Dear Wayne County Airport Authority: I would like to express my concern about setting up two stops for buses, such as the Michigan Flyer, to accommodate persons with disabilities and other passengers. This unfairly singles out persons with disabilities. The stop that is most accessible--closest to the entrance to the terminal--should be the one and only drop off point. I believe this was the point of disembarkment almost two years ago when I took the flyer to and from the McNamara Terminal. Why would you make taking a bus to the airport more complicated and time consuming? It seemed to work well before the rules were changed. The current drop off at the McNamara Terminal is isolated, far from the terminal, and seems less safe and secure to me. My last Flyer trip took me to the other terminal and the nice drop off area for buses. It would seem to me that you would want to make the McNamara drop off as close to the terminal as possible and as accessible as possible for all people. Please consider making the one drop off at the McNamara terminal the one proposed now for disabled passengers only. Simple, safe and supportive of using the airport. I like taking the Flyer to the airport and there are times when I need to take the Flyer. Please make this convenient and safe and accessible. Gary Anderson Okemos, Michigan Subject: AirRide's Original DTW Service Locations are best fit for ADA regulations From: Natalie Svaan <[email protected]>


Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:41 am To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Cc: [email protected] To Matt McGown at WCAA, Attorney General Bill Schuette, and U.S. Department of Justice Attorney Susan DeClercq: Please allow AirRide's DTW Service points to be returned to their original locations. The proposed changes from the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) violate ADA and would provide worse service to people with disabilities than the current service, which is worse still than the service points at DTW the AirRide started with 18 months ago. The new regulations: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. Thank you. Natalie Svaan Ann Arbor, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer Drop Offs at DTW From: "Comstock, Sarah" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:39 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Members of the Wayne County Airport Authority:


I am writing to urge you to allow the Michigan Flyer to have single drop sites at each terminal at DTW. I also urge you to allow the Michigan Flyer to load and unload Delta Airlines and Air France passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal as was done prior to the current situation where we are dropped/picked up in the far end of the parking garage. I travel frequently for my work at MSU, and I used to prefer to take the Michigan Flyer to DTW for these flights because I find the bus ride more convenient than flying from Lansing to Chicago to get to my destination. However, with the advent of the new drop off/pick up locations for the Michigan Flyer, I have found myself booking more and more flights from Lansing rather than dealing with the smelly, inconvenient new drop off/pick up location for the Michigan Flyer in the parking garage at DTW. Forcing the Michigan Flyer bus to make more stops at DTW will only decrease my eagerness to fly out of DTW. I imagine others will feel the same. For the sake of the airport, I urge you to allow the Michigan Flyer to drop all passengers at the terminal locations that are accessible to all human beings. Kind Regards, Sarah S. Comstock, PhD Assistant Professor Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition Michigan State University 139C Trout 469 Wilson Rd. East Lansing, MI 48824 517-353-3415 530-848-4653 (Cell) [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:34 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Never would I have ever considered the possibility that I would someday end up as a "special needs" person. In saying that, I feel embarrassed that people in decision making positions would even consider treating us differently than others. However, we do need special consideration and help in many areas. It doesn't make sense to me that you would have the Michigan Flyer stop twice -- once to debark special needs people and again to debark the "others". And, to make our traveling more inconvenient than it already is, is totally absurd and unnecessary. Please reconsider your plan to move the stop for the Michigan Flyer and put in place a plan that is safe and comfortable for the handicapped.



Subject: New Regulations Affecting Service at Detroit Metropolitan Airport From: Nancy Possley <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:32 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I am very disturbed to learn of the new regulations regarding pick up and drop off of Michigan Flyer Air Ride passengers at Detroit Metro Airport. The new regulations will only serve to needlessly slow down the process of passenger pick up and drop off. The original site for loading and unloading passengers, the International Arrivals area at the McNamara terminal, was ideal for all passengers with a comfortable area to wait and easy access to the terminal and I fail to see any rationale for changing it. The present area, the south end of the Ground Transportation Area, is both a long walk from the terminal and can be uncomfortably cold and wet in bad weather, as well as a chore when schlepping heavy baggage or herding small children. When I flew back to Detroit after the holidays it was a cold and windy day and sitting in the GTA shelter (not much of a shelter) was cold and uncomfortable. This is unnecessary. The original pick up, drop off site was ideal and I urge you to return to using that. Thank you for considering this request. Nancy Possley Subject: Michigan Flyer new rules From: victoria dykman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:32 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am writing to you regarding the new regulations for the Michigan Flyer bus requiring special stops for the disabled people. My brother is disabled and he always tries to behave as much as possible as if he can do everything healthy people do. It helps his self-esteem and I am sure many other people with disabilities feel the same. It would be humiliating for people to announce their disability to the driver and require a special stop. Also, an additional stops will make the trip altogether longer and thus inconvenience other passengers and drivers. The sensible thing to do would be to return the stop to its former spot at the terminals. This would make everyone safer. Victoria Dykman


Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Jorge Gomez MD <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:31 am To: [email protected] I am 80 years old, I need to be able to Travel to and from by plane at the Detroit Metro Airport. Please do not change the place for loading and unloading at the airport, it is very important to me. Jorge Gomez, MD 1536 Hitching Post Rd East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: Bus access From: "David Simmons" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:31 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Please return to the access previously allowed Michigan Flyer approximately 18 months ago. The current and proposed rules are extremely difficult for arriving and departing use for those of us that utilize the airport frequently which includes numerous students and faculty from East Lansing and Ann Arbor), and it serves to lower Detroit Metro on the list of best airports. Thank you David Simmons [email protected] Subject: new Michigan Flyer requirements From: bob schneider <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:25 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I don't have any other way to get to the Detroit Metro airport. Why are you tying to make this harder to use your facilities. Are you trying to force me to use Uber? take a cab? rent a car and use your parking facilities?



You efforts to limit/marginalize bus service to Metro will make using Grand Rapids, Lansing or Flint airports more acceptable. Please stop!!! B. Schneider Subject: Fwd: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Jeffrey Bennett <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:18 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt McGowan et al, As a passenger of the Michigan Flyer on multiple trips, I feel it is important to strongly disagree with most of their email. Busses should NOT be allowed to pick up and drop off in the same location as cars and other smaller vehicles. This is the premise all around the world at multiple airports. Further, the walk to the bus stop is flat, after leaving the airport. The stop distance is not a problem for anyone without a disability. Further, I think it is appropriate *when* having patrons with disabilities, as a courtesy, to drop them closer to the door. However, given that this walkway is flat and wide, I also disagree with this policy change. The bus should have one stop and the stop at the end of the ground transportation center was already accessible enough. It is my view that the original stop was dangerous for cars dropping of patrons; it is my view that it is silly for the Michigan Flyer to be opposing the stop change with such voracity; and it is my view that it is unnecessary for patrons with disabilities to have a stop closer to the entry door when the walkway to the entry door is wide and flat. Best, Jeff Bennett, A Michigan Flyer Patron Subject: changes to Michigan Flyer drop off at Detroit Metro Airport From: betsy foote <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:17 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I do not like the new changes that WCAA wants to make to the Michigan Flyer and other ground transportation vehicles at Detroit Metro. I am concerned that the proposed changes violate the ADA because they would not provide for the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner for passengers of ground transportation. The changes would force passengers to declare their disabilities.


The WCAA's proposals seem to shift their own responsibilities to provide access to the airport facilities to the ground transportation providers. I think that the proposed changes should not be implemented. Thank you. Subject: Michigan Flyer DTW Ground Regulations From: Ryan Minnema <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:16 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Whom It May Concern, I urge you to reconsider segmenting people with disabilities. It is not fair to them, it is not fair to other people. If this is enacted, what is to stop everyone from getting off/on the bus at the closer location? I certainly would utilize the closer location if afforded the opportunity. I highly recommend moving the DTW pickup/drop off location for the McNamera Terminal back to the international arrivals location. There was never an incident or issue with this location being the stop off for the Michigan Flyer. Sincerely, Ryan Minnema Subject: WCAA Regulations From: Christy Summers <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:08 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am writing with dismay over the new regulations affecting Michigan Flyer service at Detroit Metro Airport. I have used the service for years and was surprised at the change 18 months ago that moved their stop to the far south end of the GTC, which is definitely less convenient at best, and difficult/inaccessible at worst, for people with lots of luggage or children to contend with, not to mention for the elderly and people with disabilities of most concern. Now you are adding a separate stop specifically for people with disabilities when they request it? I am a licensed landscape architect in Michigan and Ohio and I work on projects that must be ADA compliant and universally designed on a daily basis. Your plan completely ignores the intent of the ADA, tenets of universal design, and what people with disabilities and their advocates have been fighting for for decades. A single stop should be designed for the safety and accessibility of ALL passengers, just as the access to the tram provides a single entry point for all users. Your new policy is regressive and discriminatory and places undue burden on the transportation provider, which ultimately will cost its customers, such as myself, time and money. I urge you to find a better solution.


Christy Summers Ann Arbor, MI Subject: Re: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Becky Matz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 9:06 am To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] On Mar 3, 2016, at 10:32 PM, Becky Matz <[email protected]> wrote: > Dear Mr. McGowan, > > Please end this ridiculous saga with the Michigan Flyer and restore the pickup and drop-off location in the McNamara terminal to the international arrivals level. The proposed segregated stops violate the ADA, and the current stop at the south end of the GTC did not "improve customer service" (unless perhaps WCAA is competing with Comcast for customer service awards). > > Give us a reason to believe that government works for the public good. > > Sincerely, > > Becky Matz, Ph.D. Subject: Investigate Corruption in Michigan Flyer Dispute From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:56 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I am a former prosecutor and former satisfied passenger of Michigan Flyer (when it stopped in Jackson). The airport's recent--and unlawful--remedy for the disability litigation is clearly segregation of the disabled and just as clearly designed to be inconvenient to the company and all its passengers. Placing ADA compliance burdens on passengers is patently ridiculous and obviously designed to encourage customers to switch to other transportation sources. The airport's campaign against Michigan Flyer is suspicious for corruption. There is no apparent benefit to the airport to reducing the transportation options. Affordable airport transportation is a factor in passenger choice of airports. This increases airport revenue. Why is the airport willing to lose money to get rid of the Flyer?



The Watergate-rule applies--follow the money. The only benefactors are competitor transport companies. The benefits must be substantial to get airport management's to violate federal law repeatedly to help the competitors. The officials I have copied should determine what competitors have provided persuasion--or incentives--to airport employees to eliminate the Flyer services. I urge them to start administrative or criminal investigations to discover the businesses or persons behind this unlawful harassment of Michigan Flyer---and its passengers. Elizabeth Warner, Attorney Jackson, Michigan (517) 788-6004 [email protected] Subject: Detroit Metro Airport group transport regulations From: "Antonio C.C. Villari" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:56 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sir, This message is to express my concern on the new ground transport regulations at the Detroit Metro Airport. I’m user of Michigan Flyer between East Lansing and the Detroit airport since many years and can express i) first, my insatisfaction regarding the changes happened 18 months ago on the stop of the Flyer in the airpot and ii) second, my concerned regarding the new WCAA regulations Which obliges multiple stops of the bus. I agree with the Michigan Flyer point of view and copy the following: “"The new regulation violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane



dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. “” With no doubt, the previous stop (18 months ago) was convenient and provided accessibility to all passengers without discrimination. Cordially, Antonio C.C. Villari 1220 Blanchette Dr. East Lansing, MI48823 [email protected] Tel: +1 (517) 351-6640 Mob: +1 (517) 721-9784 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Ellen Speckman-Randall <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:56 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am a 65 year old woman who travels for my job and frequently uses the Michigan Flyer. This past year I traveled steadily for four months and intermittently the rest of the year, flying primarily on Mondays and Fridays. I have found that the Michigan Flyer makes the Detroit airport almost as accessible as the Lansing airport, so I’m willing to use it rather than my hometown airport where the flights tend to be somewhat more expensive. I almost always fly Delta and enjoyed the previous drop off spot at the McNamara terminal. It was accessible and close to the terminal, yet a little out of the way of traffic. I was confused as to when this spot was no longer available for drop-off. The new spot is at a far greater distance and can be cold and blustery in winter as it is close to the exit. I understand there is now a plan for dual drop off spots. How can this be more efficient? If the bus is letting off riders, why can’t everyone who wishes exit, do so at the first stop? Why would people continue to ride to a location further away from where they wish to be? And why stigmatize people with disabilities? I am not disabled but would appreciate not having to walk a great distance with my suitcase and carry-on as I am a senior citizen, but I certainly don’t want to appear to be disabled. How would people prove a disability? Are you going to question people who exit at the disabled stop? Can families with young children take advantage of the disability stop? How about students who are coming from far distances and have an extra suitcase that is difficult to maneuver? Can ordinary seniors use the stop or must we have a disability card? All of this becomes cumbersome and a bit ridiculous. This entire plan seems aimed at making the Michigan Flyer fail. And why would you want to do that? The Michigan Flyer makes the Detroit airport a viable option for people who live in the Lansing/East Lansing area. Without the Flyer, at least some of us would opt to use the Lansing airport. Don’t you


value your customers from the Lansing/East Lansing area? Are you opposed to public transportation? Again why are you making public transportation which benefits us all, a less viable option? It seems like you would try encourage this option as a matter of good public policy. Do you want to upset the Michigan Flyer schedule by requiring the driver to stop four times and open the luggage compartment four times rather than two? If so, to what purpose? I have a hard time figuring out why you’re doing this. The first option seemed to work for everyone, yet you continue to try and move the stop around to the disadvantage of the people who use your airport. Not good customer service on your part and please remember, we are your customers, or maybe, were. Sincerely, Ellen Speckman-Randall Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Chris Difonzo <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:56 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hello – I recently read an article in the DTW Free Press about WCAA’s latest change in drop off/loading points for buses at the DTW airport. I frequently take the Michigan Flyer to DTW from East Lansing, to avoid delayed or cancelled flights at LAN. The Flyer service has significantly improved travel for those of us working at MSU (and our visitors arriving in Michigan), and certainly it funnels more business directly into DTW. The decision to shift the drop off point from International Arrivals to the farthest-away point was ill conceived, and time has borne out many of problems predicted. I’ve flown many times since the move, and see them first hand. In the winter, the waiting area is cold, sometimes freezing – I am not even talking about the bus stop itself, but the indoor seating near the escalators. Mich Flyer added some heaters, but the outer doors continuously open to the parking lot, letting in cold air & auto fumes. The parking garage is extremely fumey, especially in cold weather, since exhaust just hangs in the cold air. The sidewalk is open on one side, and sometimes has snow on it. Safety was not improved (in fact things are clearly less safe) since passengers sometimes walk in the road to & from the bus, and sometimes stand in or near the road as the bus is loaded. The walk to the terminal is significant. I pity families with a couple small kids, elderly passengers or those with disabilities, as they have a tough time. Mich Flyer employees do their best to help, and other passengers step in to carry bags. This is NOT A THEORETICAL occurrence. I’ve seen this every time I have traveled since the move, and I’ve helped people myself. Recently the shoe was on the other foot after I had back surgery. I can attest that the walk is daunting for those with low mobility. The latest plan to drop off ‘disabled’ passengers at a different location is even more absurd. First, it forces people to declare their disability, and then face the disapproval of those delayed by a second stop. Second, if the bus can now stop at the terminal, why not just drop off everyone there? Third,


what’s to stop everyone from getting off at the terminal? In fact, the latter is what will happen – once a couple people get off the bus and the luggage door opens, you can bet everyone else is getting off too. The reasons for moving the Flyer stop from International Arrivals were shaky at best. The problems with keeping the current drop off point are real. The ‘second-stop’ solution gives the illusion of addressing those with disabilities, while not having to admit that it was simply wrong to move the drop off point in the first place. Surely the WCAA can do better. Sincerely, Dr. Chris DiFonzo Williamston, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer dropoff/pickup locations at DTW From: Priya <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:56 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, I understand that in order to comply with new airport regulations, WCAA will require Michigan Flyer buses to make TWO stops at each of the two airport terminals. The purpose of the additional stop at each terminal is to accommodate persons with disabilities. Why not just make single stop at each terminal at a location that works for ALL passengers (as was done by Michigan Flyer in the past)? It seems to me that this would prevent unnecessary delays, while providing all passengers with convenient access to the bus. I.e., if the bus will potentially need to stop 'closer' to the terminal anyway, then it seems that it would make sense to make that the 'standard' pickup location for everyone. I just want to add that Michigan Flyer is an excellent service that makes traveling to Michigan via DTW much more convenient than it used to be before the service was introduced. Thank you. Regards, Priya Joshi Subject: Michigan Flyer terminal stops at Detroit Metro Airport From: Irene Baker <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:55 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]


Dear Matt, Your plan for Michigan Flyer to stop twice at each terminal, once for the able-bodied and once for the disabled, is insulting, illegal and ridiculous. Do you really want Detroit Metro to be in the business of forcing passengers to declare their disability in order to embark or disembark a bus at your facility? Is this the “integrated” service required by the ADA and by common sense? Must one prove one’s disability if it is not visible to the authorities of your facility? Public transportation is so rare in this state why don’t you try and make it more useable and timely instead of fighting every effort to make it work? I urge you to rethink this policy that could only be intended to make business more difficult for the Michigan Flyer and all those who depend on it for transportation to Michigan’s main airport. Make it easy and pleasant to come to the airport for all of Michigan’s citizens. Sincerely, Irene Baker Subject: Getting to DTW From: John Krienke <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:54 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr McGowan, I have heard stories of more and more difficulties bringing people to DTW via mass transportation options. We in this state must do everything within our power to encourage the proliferation of options that promote travel and mobility without the need for singularly expensive and polluting automobiles. I strongly urge you, for our economic well being and for the well being of Michigan as a great place to live, to ensure that the Michigan Flyer and all mass transportation options are PRIMARY in your design and regulations at the airport. Mass transit should be the easiest, most efficient, and most enjoyable option to get to the airport. Michigan Flyer has done much to get us there. Most respectfully, John Krienke Director Service Management Internet2


Subject: Michigan Flyer drop off locations at DTW From: Jill Crane <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:50 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Good Morning, I read the WCAA press release announcing that soon Michigan Flyers passengers with disabilities will have expanded choices for drop-offs and pick-ups at DTW. I want to point out that until September of 2014 if a passenger with disabilities travelled to the airport on the Michigan Flyer they had a very convenient drop-off at the International arrivals at DTW's McNamara Terminal. I encourage you to allow Michigan Flyer passengers to again be dropped-off at the International arrivals at DTW's McNamara Terminal. Your planned "expanded choices or drop-offs and pick-ups at DTW has a few problems. 1) Forces passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to Michigan Flyer in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals. 2) In many situations, it will double the number of stops Michigan Flyer makes at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in their schedule. Also, as the number of stops increases some of the Michigan Flyer passengers are confused. Please consider allowing all Michigan Flyer passengers to be dropped-off at the International arrivals at DTW's McNamara Terminal. Sincerely, Jill Crane 804 Ivydale Street Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Subject: MY BUS TO AIRPORT From: Nelly Ullman <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:50 am To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I am 90 years old. The excellent bus service has made it possible for me to continue flying. However the long walk is a big obstacle for me. I just love to be dropped off opposite the International entry. Please don't change that! Nelly Ullman 2360 St. Francis Drive Ann Arbor, Mi. 48104 tel. (734) 973-8018 Subject: RE: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Dampier, Christopher" <[email protected]>


Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:49 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear WCAA, I am a medical student at UMMS and have used the Michigan Flyer to get from Ann Arbor to DTW consistently throughout my four years. I was disappointed when the WCAA moved the drop-off for the McNamara terminal from the International Arrivals curb. I wasn't aware of the reasons until I read an email from Michigan Flyer this morning, in which another proposed revision was discussed. The difficult-to-reach outpost where the Flyer now stops was evidently selected by the WCAA to improve customer service and safety, which are both threatened by the move. I know DTW has a lot of problems to fix, and improving Flyer service would seem to address some of the biggest ones, including parking and the incredible fiasco that is the private passenger pick-up experience. Obviously, making public transportation convenient would improve life in Michigan beyond DTW-specific issues, and it would seem to be the responsibility of transportation administrators to do so. Please bring the Flyer back to the International Arrivals curb. Thank you for your attention, Chris Dampier Subject: Michigan Flyer From: "Trail, Frances" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:47 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, Would you please stop messing with Michigan Flyer? This bus service provides a convenient, economic as well as essential service to DTW airport for folks that live from Ann Arbor to Lansing. It is well-run, reliable and helpful to those of us who cannot or do not have the ability to drive the long distance. I don’t know why you keep making it harder for folks to get dropped off and picked up at a convenient spot. Please stop the shenanigans, and make room for a great service that was absent for many years. It helps our airport and us. Frances Trail 900 Every Road Mason, MI 48854


Subject: Changes in Michigan Flyer Loading Zones From: Josh Winkelstein <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:47 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, I regularly ride the Michigan Flyer from Lansing to DTW. They seem to have a very good knowledge of their business. I am just going to copy the points they made in an email to me: "Among our many concerns about the new regulations are that they would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark" My suggestion is that you allow the Flyer to return to its old drop off point, for everyone. It has been proven safe and effective for ALL Flyer passengers. Everything that makes the Flyer less convenient for me reduces the attractions of DTW. Thank You. Josh Winkelstein 4382 Rexford Ave. Holt MI 48842 Subject: Comment about moving Michigan Flyer drop-off spots From: "Roberta McCall" [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:47 am To: <[email protected]>



Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, I am a traveler who is blind and am writing to comment about the changes made to the MI Flyer drop off points at DTW. I have not used the Flyer since these changes were made 18 months ago because I am uncomfortable with the location after the move farther away from the terminal. Secondly, I resent the proposed “two drop off” point idea being proposed for persons with disabilities for several reasons: I do not want to be treated differently from travelers without disabilities unless it is absolutely necessary (I do not believe this was the case prior to the drop off point being moved 18 months ago); I do not want my disability being brought to the attention of other travelers by having to get off the bus while they have to go to a more inconvenient point to disembark; I do not feel there is a safety issue dropping off people at the point where it is proposed to drop off persons with disabilities; If there is truly a safety issue dropping off passengers nearer to the terminal, I do not want to be placed in greater danger by being dropped off in this spot; I do not believe there truly was a safety issue as is stated about moving the drop off point 18 months ago. I urge you to change the MI Flyer drop off point to its original location as it was 18 months ago. Thank you for your time and attention. Feel free to contact me if you wish. Roberta McCall [email protected] E Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: Michigan Flyer Fiasco From: Kate Sanford <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:46 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The continued discrimination against the Michigan Flyer and its passengers has gotten out of hand. There should be some governmental recourse other than just expressing displeasure. Can there be an arbitration or mediation scheduled to get to the bottom of why this has happened? I fly out of Detroit both for the price advantage on airlines and for the convenience of the Michigan Flyer. They do a great


job and provide a valuable service to many in Lansing, East Lansing (and surrounding areas) and Ann Arbor. Please help! Sincerely, Kate Sanford Subject: Michigan Flyer Location at Detroit Metro Airport From: Lynn Swanson <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:42 am To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt: I would like to protest the arbitrary move of the Michigan Flyer to a location so distant from the McNamara terminal. It was difficult to find prior to this move when it was just far afield from the other commercial shuttles, but this is unfair. It's unfair to all riders, not just the disabled. I am a U of M and a Michigan State grad who rides these line each time I come to town and I am finding your decision hasty and discriminating. Please allow the Michigan Flyer a closer, more visible location. There are many people who would use it if they could simply see it, even if they didn't have reservations. As it is, you need a shuttle to get to the shuttle. Good grief. Thank you. I look forward to improved service from you. B. Lynn Swanson Subject: Let's keep Michigan Flyer service accessible and pleasant for all travelers From: Michael Rodemer <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:35 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The shift away from curbside dropoff and boarding at DTW for the Michigan Flyer bus service is perplexing and disturbing: perplexing because it was formerly convenient, safe, sheltered somewhat from the weather, and equally available to passengers with and without needs for mobility accomodations. What is disturbing is the plan to segregate disabled passengers at one service point, and shunt all others to a hard-to-find, inconvenient location across the road. There's an adage among computer programmers (and other professions, no doubt): "If it isn't broken, don't fix it." Please re-institute the curbside service for all passengers, and allow Michigan Flyer to again offer the excellent, practical service it once did. Sincerely, Professor Michael Rodemer Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design


Affiliate, Department of Germanic Languages and Literatures University of Michigan [email protected] http://www.umich.edu/~rodemer Subject: Re: Michigan Flyer new proposed pickups requirements From: Karen Litos <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:35 am To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]>, [email protected], [email protected], "<[email protected]>" <[email protected]> Mr. McGowen, It is obvious you don’t read letters of support from the public and don’t care about public opinion, nor the opinion of the governor, attorney general, ACLU or the State Transportation Commission given this canned response I received back immediately following my email. Your proposed solution is unacceptable, offensive and likely illegal. Stating that persons with disabilities can “choose to use the old location” as an option, when the old location is not accessible, is forcing segregation and forcing them to disclose their disability to a bus line. They can’t choose to use an inaccessible location so it is NOT a choice. You are not looking out for anything other than your own convenience and retaliation against a popular bus line. Further, your “solution” is being implemented with public comment. It’s disgusting, forced segregation and discrimination. It also does not address the safety and comfort issues that remain for all riders of the Flyer in the current location. Sincerely, Karen Litos Please find a copy of the letter I just sent you below: Mr. McGowan, Your new proposed solution for persons with disabilities traveling on the Flyer that resulted from your unfortunate decision to move the Flyers location from a safe accessible location to an unsafe, inaccessible one is offensive and unacceptable. It seems obvious from everything the WCAA has done that it is trying to impede accessibility, comfort of all Flyer passengers and ultimately profitability of a very valuable and popular safe transport system from Lansing/Ann Arbor to DTW. The idea that you would implement a plan of segregation for persons with disabilities requiring separate waiting areas that also forces the Flyer to make additional stops AND requires individuals to disclose their disabilities in order to gain access to transportation is equivalent to separate drinking fountains for persons of color. What’s next, separate buses? How dare you implement this new discriminatory plan without adequate public comment?!!!! You don’t require separate waiting areas for persons with disabilities for any other bus system servicing DTW. You continue to do everything in your power to avoid overwhelming public opinion support for the Flyer along with the concerns expressed by our governor, the attorney general, and the state transportation


http://www.umich.edu/~rodemer

commission who agree the current GTC location is unsafe and inaccessible. I travel frequently on the Flyer and need it in order to do my job. I have waited in that garage for the bus in the cold because of the inadequate heaters, terrified and alone late at night (except for one employee not paying any attention to the surroundings sitting in a little enclosed booth at the very end of the garage). The previous location at International Arrivals was safe, indoors, comfortable and accessible to all Flyer passengers including seniors and persons with disabilities. No need for segregation. Stop the transparent political retaliation against a bus line with a perfect safety record and give the Flyer back it’s old location or build a new safe accessible one now. Enough is enough; we need and want this service, and ultimately, it brings LOTS of business to DTW so it is a win-win. Sincerely, Karen Litos 1944 Creek Landing Haslett, MI 48840 517 204-6228 Subject: Changes in access for common carriers From: "Mr. Walter L. Sorg Jr." <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:33 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The plan to have two stops for Michigan Flyer coaches at the terminals is silly. First you changed the stop to the far reaches of the terminal in the name of safety and traffic movement. Now, you are going to move the stop back to where it should have been … but only allow passengers with disabilities to board or exit. That doesn’t make sense. “Separate but equal” doesn’t make business, safety or legal sense. What does make sense is to allow the Michigan Flyer to load and unload passengers in reasonable proximity to the terminal. I am a senior citizen with two artificial knees. While I am not considered disabled, the long trek from the bus to the terminal (especially in cold weather) can be an issue with me. Sadly it is especially critical when it’s part of a trip to/from the south. You don’t wear a winter coat to Florida. Forcing passengers to endure Michigan winter weather under these conditions isn’t what I’d call customer-friendly. Michigan Flyer provides an excellent service as part of an integrated transportation system. It helps reduce pollution, reduce congestion on highways. For my family it is also a reason to utilize flights from DTW instead of LAN, FNT or GRR (all of which are otherwise far more convenient). My wife and I implore you to stop trying to discourage use of Michigan Flyer and embrace the concept that your airport is part of a transportation system, not an entity unto itself which has no obligation to the larger needs of the traveling public. Walter Sorg and Megan Kavanagh Lansing


Subject: Michigan Flyer at DTW From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:31 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, I wholeheartedly disagree with this proposed “New Ground Transportation Regulations”. Go back to the original drop-off point and be done with it. I’ve followed this saga for 18 months and it’s sad that political actions out way common sense. Your true “hidden” agenda is that you really don’t want anyone using a bus to get to and from the airport because it doesn’t benefit you and you would prefer everyone who can’t be dropped off or picked up at the terminal, pay for parking at the airport. So making it as inconvenient as possible is really what’s all about, with the prospect of generating more parking revenue. Regards, Rick Janego Subject: The parking situation regarding the Michigan Flyer From: Leslie Lacy <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:22 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> To Whom It May Concern: Please reconsider the requirement that Michigan Flyer patrons disembark at the far end of the Ground Transportation Center, away from the McNamara Terminal, unless they self-identify as disabled. I strongly agree with the Michigan Flyer/Indian Trails arguments, which are that this arrangement will create these legal and ethical dilemmas: 1. Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” 2. Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome.


3. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. 4. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule. Frankly, this entire situation seems to an outside observer to be a bald-faced and unethical attempt at restraint of trade, aimed at Michigan Flyer because it competes with the Capitol City airport and with other transportation entities in the Detroit Metro area. Please do your best to stand up for free market competition and genuine traveler safety and convenience. Thank you for reading this and taking it under consideration. Sincerely, Leslie Lacy 304 Murphy Circle East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 332-1411 Subject: New GROUND TRANSPORTATION REGULATIONS for DTW From: John Callewaert <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:19 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> TO: WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY "McNamara Terminal Drop-offs – The Ground Transportation Operator must first complete its passenger drop-off at its standard location for all passengers other than the individual with a disability who has requested a reasonable accommodation, after which the Ground Transportation Operator must drop off the individual with a disability who has made such a request (and any of his/her family members or caretakers) at the McNamara Terminal Departures Level curb" Why on earth are you creating separate drop-off procedures for people with disabilities and burdening them with making additional requests? Do the right thing and allow convenient curbside drop-off and pick-up for everyone using public transit to get to DTW. John Callewaert Ann Arbor, MI 48105 Subject: Michigan Flyer/AirRide drop off concerns From: "Ratkiewicz, Paulette" <[email protected]>


Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:18 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Hello, I am a frequent "Michigan Flyer" rider from Ann Arbor to Metro airport. It has proven to be a fast, efficient, and safe method of transportation to and from the airport. For the past 18 months the drop off/pick up point has moved as far away from the entrance to the McNamara terminal as it possibly could. I am not disabled but I am getting older and my husband is even older than I am. While I appreciate the desire to improve transportation for people who are disabled, I don't see the value in having two stops; one for disabled riders and one for others. Transportation to the airport is difficult for many people--senior citizens like myself, families with children, and just the average traveler trying to make a flight. If there is a more convenient option for making travel less stressful and a little quicker for everyone, then why not do that? Many of us are looking for options to avoid parking at the airport, using public transportation which will reduce the impact on our environment, and saving parking spaces for those who don't have this option. Please consider every traveler. Look at the big picture. We are all your customers. Please consider all of our needs. Thank you for your time and consideration. Paulette Ratkiewicz Subject: DTW and public transportation stumbling blocks From: G P Witteveen <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:18 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, At the urging of MichiganFlyer.com and as a fulfilled user of this public transportation service from E.Lansing and from Ann Arbor, I wish to express my dismay at your escalation of obstacles to this valuable public service. Of course there are other reasons to worry over your increasing hostility to bus services such as ADA convenience and compliance (both in letter and spirit of the law), but in this email I focus on the heart of the public transportation principle that is being harmed by your actions and plans for further actions. There is the legacy of car makers and private transportation in Detroit and the case of the central city


trams being bought up then scrapped by the car makers. But surely 2016 is a time to consider congestion, air and water quality, and energy conservation. Please make public transportation easier, not harder. --from middle Michigan, concerned rider, Guven Peter Witteveen 105 N. Emmons St. St. Johns, MI 48879-1405 Subject: Michigan Flyer Drop off and Pickup From: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:10 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> One of the basics of facility design for handicapped people is that a safe design for handicappers is safer for everyone. For example, I am not handicapped, but I enjoy the safety and convenience of ramps. Please provide a convenient drop off and pickup location that will be convenient to everyone. Michigan Flyer provides a service that makes it much more likely to use the DTW airport than Grand Rapids which is actually closer and relatively convenient. Sincerely, Dale Dailey DeWitt, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer From: "Kirkey, Patricia" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:10 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Why doesn’t the WCAA want to provide good service to Michigan Flyer and all of the customers using not only their service but also the services of WCAA? This makes absolutely no sense. I have read the news articles and comments from other customers and couldn’t agree more that this new plan discriminates against the disabled and creates inconvenience for all of the customers involved. Give Michigan Flyer their bus stop back. It worked perfect and was convenient for everyone. I will definitely search any other possible airport in the mid-Michigan area to use before WCAA.


Patty Kirkey Michigan State University Subject: New ground transportation regulations for DTW From: Jen Pechal <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 8:08 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I am writing with great concern regarding the new ground transportation regulations that may be taking place this month that affects the Michigan Flyer bus stops at the Detroit airport. I routinely use this excellent and efficient travel service both for personal and professional travel back and forth from East Lansing to DTW, as it is highly convenient and dependable. I have used this service many times and the current drop off location is never busy and the bus does not impede traffic or pedestrian flow, but is highly convenient, safe and protected from the elements for the bus passengers. I understand the proposed new stop will be much more inconvenient, less safe as it is outside of the parking garage that is also exposed to the weather. This decision should be reconsidered to have two stops located 200 yards apart form each other, as it will be more efficient to pick up/drop off all passengers at the same, safe location. Sincerely, Jen Pechal, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Fixed Term Department of Entomology Michigan State University 243 Natural Science Building East Lansing, MI 48824 Phone: (517) 355-6514 Fax (517) 432-7061 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: benbowlab.ent.msu.edu Subject: Michigan Flyer/new regulations From: "Pollack-Rundle, CJ" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:57 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>


The new proposed regulations for drop-off at the Metropolitan airport are just ridiculous, asking the bus service to make two stops makes absolutely no sense. Having used Michigan Flyer’s services several times, I found it to be a relaxing, time-saving and valuable service, saving me the stress of driving and parking in the airport. All public transportation passengers, including those with disabilities, enjoyed an even more convenient and accessible location 18 months ago. Please come to your senses and allow this valuable service to continue as it did 18 months ago, without incident. Carol J. Pollack-Rundle 6980 Warner Rd Saline MI 48176 Subject: Fwd: Michigan Flyer From: Lauri Mendelsohn <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:49 am To: [email protected], [email protected] > Begin forwarded message: > > From: Lauri Mendelsohn <[email protected]> > Subject: Michigan Flyer > Date: March 4, 2016 at 7:36:13 AM EST > To: [email protected] > > Hello, > > I am an occassional user of the Michigan Flyer, which I very much appreciate and value! > I have been using the service since it's inception. > I noticed that last time I used the Flyer they dropped me far from the usual place, far from the entrance to the building. It was cold and inconvenient. > I do not understand why this is happening. > What happened to the original drop off point? > > Now, I am hearing you will only allow certain people off at the door. Handicappers? > Believe me we are all handicappers. With luggage, kids, deadlines! > > Please reconsider and allow the Michigan Flyer to return to their original drop off and pick up points. > > Thank you, > > Lauri Mendelsohn > 4491 Old Pond Trail > Dimondale. MI > [email protected]


> 517.645.7026 Subject: Re: Michigan Flyer Service at McNamara Terminal From: Craig Schantz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:38 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Matt: The automated email response from Thomas Naughton reveals that no one read or cares about the concerns expressed in my letter. The "Normal" pickup and drop off location at McNamara is a cruel joke. It is extremely inconsistent with the "fostering a welcome environment" statement. As a frequent flyer, I will relate these experiences to my fellow travelers. The Grand Rapids airport is about the same distance from my home near Lansing and I will give them a try. Bet they don't charge $22/day for parking either. Craig Schantz Subject: Michigan Flyer Service at McNamara Terminal From: Craig Schantz <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:01 am To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Matt: I am a frequent flyer, flying once or twice per month to the Silicon Valley area in California. I live about 12 miles south of Lansing, in Mason, MI and usually drive the 85 miles one way to Detroit Metro Airport. When flying back home, I usually take the 'red-eye' from San Jose and arrive in Detroit around 6:30am. Normally, I drive home, tired, but no problem. On February 6th I bought a bus ticket home since my wife needed the car while I was out of town. On returning to Detroit, I went to the waiting room at the McNamara terminal "Ground Transportation Center". The waiting room had a "Michigan Flyer" sign, so it was reasonable to assume that this was where folks were supposed to wait for the bus. At the scheduled pick up time, while looking out the waiting room window, I watched the Michigan Flyer bus zoom past heading down the road. I grabbed my suitcase and coffee, went outside (nothing like a brisk February walk at 7:15am) and saw the bus parked down the road, looked like about 1/4 mile. So I immediately hustled my 64 year-old-self down the sidewalk in the 10 degree weather, only to have the bus take off without me before I could get there. As you could imagine, I was plenty irritated. The next bus was not scheduled to arrive for another hour and a half so I called my wife who drove the 160 mile round trip to pick me up.


A letter of complaint to Michigan Flyer resulted in a $30 refund. The folks at Michigan Flyer explained that the pick up location was determined by the authorities at the airport, it was not their idea and they didn't like it either. OK, so I'm pretty fit for a 64 year old guy, but I could not make it to the pick up location before the bus took off. Was I supposed to wait outside in the February weather for this bus? Do you not care about elderly or disabled passengers? Not only is this a terrible and inconvenient pick up location, I would imagine it is a violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act. I am cc'ing this letter to the Michigan Secretary of State for their review. I am hoping you come up with a better solution that provides a safe, warm and convenient waiting area for Michigan Flyer bus passengers. With regards, Craig Schantz 3927 Toles Rd. Mason, MI 48854 (248-880-7639 [email protected] [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer Bus to the airport From: Brigid Kowalczyk <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:36 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I also object to the two separate drop off spots for the passengers to the terminals at Metro Airport. The concerns voice below make sense to me and returning to the previous drop off system seems reasonable. Among our many concerns about the new regulations are that they would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule.



WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. I am not disabled but I am getting older. That long hike from the current drop off location can be taxing for someone my age and could increase the time I need in order to meet my flight. With luggage and children, those who have family members to drive and drop them off will be at an advantage over those who like or have to take the bus. Brigid Kowalczyk Subject: MICHIGAN FLYER AT DTW From: Donna Capron <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:31 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] What are you people thinking? This is such an IMPORTANT service and you are making it very difficult by moving the Michigan Flyer drop-off/pick-up so inconvenient. In a state and more importantly a local area in need of retaining citizens as well as making public transportation accessible you are doing the opposite. Most airports around the country LOVE and encourage ground transportation. They make it convenient and accessible but not DTW oh NO not you. Shame on you, what a waste of my tax money. My husband is a retired senior citizen with some health issues that require doctor visits at UM health center, he uses the Michigan Flyer to get to Ann Arbor and depends on other people to drop him off at the already confusing airport, well the once completely easy drop off has turned into a gauntlet. He is no more disabled than other airline passengers with bags, family members and unfamiliarity of the airport are. So should he call to be accommodated? Maybe all the passengers should call. I guess making DTW as unfriendly as possible is your goal and you are doing a great job, thanks My suggestion is that you give this more thought, ask for public in put, consider the airport's reputation and long term goals. You can do better than this. Sincerely with disappointment, Donna Capron Subject: Michigan Flyer - Detroit Metro Airport


From: Pamela Hardy <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:24 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I have used the Michigan Flyer on numerous occasions to get from Lansing to the Detroit Metro Airport and back. I was pleased the first time I used it because of the comfort and the ease of access from one point to the other. The last time I used it I was shocked to realize that the drop off and pickup point at the MacNamara Terminal is now a significant distance from the terminal entry, making it a little less convenient for carrying luggage and much less convenient to wait for your bus, especially in the winter. I have now learned that the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) plan to have the Michigan Flyer drop off passengers with disabilities at one place (closer to the terminal) and the remaining passengers at the new “standard” location. I am highly offended and do not understand why, if you can approve drop off and pick up closer to the terminal for one group of passengers, it wouldn’t be approved for all passengers? Sounds like discrimination to me. It also sounds like you are trying to discourage Michigan Flyer service and its passengers. Does it take away from parking revenue at the airport? Michigan Flyer is not present nearly as often or in as much force as the plethora of busses and shuttles for local parking, hotels, etc. I see they still have their priority spots. I am saddened and am confused by what political motivation has caused the WCAA to institute this double standard. I hope you will reconsider and allow the Michigan Flyer to drop off and pick up at one location (preferably closer to the terminal entry). Thank you. Pam Hardy Subject: Michigan Flyer From: deby stuart <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 7:16 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I ride the Michigan Flyer a few times a year and have for about 6 years. I am very able bodied and strong. It is no problem for me to walk across the terminal, down the escalator to the baggage claim and then up again to cross the street then down the escalator/elevator to the Michigan Flyer which is the farthest bus from the terminal. I count it as exercise after sitting on the airplane. If I was in a wheel chair or had difficulty walking it is a long distance in the terminal to the Flyer but the terminal has a smooth floor. Once outside in the weather it is quite a distance from the building to the bus. There is a shelter but it isn't warm and the rain does come in. I think I would need help maneuvering.


I will say it was much more convenient when I just had to get my bags and go out the door to the Flyer, especially when my children were smaller. It seems if they can change the bus stop to accommodate handicapped individuals, they might as well pick up the other passengers who need to ride the bus. I would hope they would allow the handicapped individuals to board first to get them settled and then allow the other passengers on. I love the convenience of the Michigan Flyer. Thank you for the service. Sincerely, Deby Stuart Subject: Re: [Auto-Reply] Regarding drop offs for those with disabilities.. From: Deborah Harrison <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:45 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Received a very thorough response back from the head of the Wayne County International Airport. I appreciated that. I hope you all may come to some kind of resolution on this. Debby Harrison Subject: Regarding drop offs for those with disabilities.. From: Deborah Harrison <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:34 am To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Interested parties, I truly don't ever write such a letter but this has come to my attention. I would encourage the parties involved listen to those who drive the buses and try to help everyone. I know of Kelly Dean who owns Dean transportation. This is a gentleman who cares about everyone in our community doing many worthwhile things... I would have to believe he is aware as to what is helpful and workable for all. We in the Lansing area rely on Dean's to get us to Detroit. Our own airport is not user friendly, another issue. We want everyone to be on time and safe to their departure destination. Please reconsider this latest change. Debby Harrison Subject: Michigan Flyer stop From: Michele Hannoosh <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:27 am


To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I would like to protest against the changes to the Michigan Flyer bus stop at Detroit Metro Airport which were instituted 18 months ago and further modified this week. The old stop outside the International arrivals door of the McNamara terminal should be restored for all passengers: it was under cover and fully accessible to disabled riders. The current stop is exposed to the weather and very inconvenient. While I am glad that you have understood that disabled passengers need an accessible stop, you could have the best for ALL passengers by restoring the original stop. Michèle Hannoosh Professor of French Department of Romance Languages & Literatures University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1275 USA http://www-personal.umich.edu/~hannoosh/hannoosh.html Editor, Word & Image (http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/twim20/current) Co-ordinator, "The Mediterranean Perspective on Global History and Culture" (http://www.lsa.umich.edu/mediterranean) Subject: New ground transportation regulations for DTW From: Eric Benbow <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:25 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: I am writing with great concern regarding the new ground transportation regulations that may be taking place this month that affects the Michigan Flyer bus stops at the Detroit airport. I routinely use this excellent and efficient travel service both for personal and professional travel. It is highly convenient and dependable. I have used this service many times and the current drop off location is never busy and the bus does not impede traffic or pedestrian flow, but is highly convenient, safe and protected from the elements for the bus passengers. I understand the proposed new stop will be much more inconvenient, less safe as it is outside of the parking garage that is also exposed to the weather. This decision should be reconsidered. M. Eric Benbow, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Entomology and Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties Michigan State University 243 Natural Science Bldg. 288 Farm Lane East Lansing, MI 48824 517-410-9247 (Cell)


http://www.lsa.umich.edu/mediterranean

517-355-6514 (lab) 517-432-7061 (fax) [email protected] (email) [email protected] (email) Subject: Regarding the Press Release, "Detroit Metro Airport plans to expand choices for travelers with disabilities." From: Bryan Ellinger <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 6:23 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr McGowan, As a regular traveler at DTW, I'm unimpressed with the stance the WCAA has taken regarding the "Michigan Flyer" service and the proposal to segregate stops at the airport for people with disabilities. The proposed rule would require ground transportation to make two stops at each terminal--one for disabled passengers, and another for everyone else. It seems crystal clear that the proposed rule would violate the ADA: “[Which] recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Might I suggest that the WCAA provide a single stop at each terminal that is appropriate for all travelers. The proposed rule is rubbish and the press release reeks like propaganda. SMH. Thank you, Bryan Ellinger Subject: New DTW Regulations for Dropping off Passengers From: Grace Ueberroth <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:28 am To: [email protected] If the new regulation is enacted, I suggest you pass out complimentary canes so that everyone can be dropped off at the disability site... Subject: Public transportation pick up and drop off at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Richard and Annette Weiser" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 5:26 am To: <[email protected]>


Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> I would like to add my voice to that of many others who disagree with and disapprove of the Wayne County Airport Authority's movement of public transportation options from an area which allowed all passengers, able bodied and disabled, to easily access bus transportation. This seems to be an obvious move to placate the for-profit parking and high cost transportation operators at the airport at the expense of those who either cannot drive and park at one of the airport vendors, cannot afford high-cost taxi and limo services, or choose to protect the environment by using mass and public transportation. If we hope to make Michigan a better place to live, our government officials need to stop pandering to big business and instead look to the health and welfare of the average citizen. Annette Weiser 1939 Oneida Drive Okemos, Michigan Subject: about Michigan Flyer bus stop at DTW From: [email protected] Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 3:18 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr.McGowan I heard the news that will change the bus stop location at DTW. I think it is a little confused for passengers. If my understand is right, the passengers need to go to the different bus stop for the same bus, one is for regular passengers and the other is for the passengers with a disability. And most passengers have to walk out side to the bus stop with their big baggage even though in the winter chilly weather. We usually make a bus reservation a little earlier than flight schedule; however, if the bus stop is more convenient than new plan, obviously, it is easier and more convenient. It is appreciated if you would consider about the passengers. Thank you very much. Sincerely yours, Izumi Araki Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Lynn Pollack <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:56 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], susan declercq <[email protected]>, [email protected] Hi Matt,


I am writing to request that Michigan Flyer be allowed to return to its original drop off point at the airport that it had 18 months ago before the airport authorities moved them to a distant and untenable location in the airport for dubious reasons. I have taken this bus and it is a great service, and an excellent company, and there was no issue whatsoever with being dropped off where passengers have always been dropped off ---near check in, where it only makes sense to be dropped off. It seems to me Michigan Flyer is being treated unfairly, almost persecuted, by the airport. Somebody should investigate why airport officials are doing this to them. It does not make sense and it seems unwarranted. Sincerely, Lynn Pollack Subject: Return MichiganFlyer bus drop-off to McNamara International terminal From: Kent Berridge <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:34 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I strongly urge the DTW airport to return to allowing the Michigan Flyer Bus to pick up passengers at the International terminal level of the DTW McNamara Terminal. That location was safe and convenient and promoted the use of public transportation. The current location is not convenient, and the proposed regulations for an increased number of stops is worse and will delay schedules for all passengers. DTW should return to the original McNamara Intl curb. Planning needs to be more accountable to users. The recent changes have not been at all for the benefit of users. Mr. McGowan should be required to spend 6 months commuting to DTW via the Michigan Flyer bus (carrying luggage too). At the end of that time, I think he will agree that the International MacNamara terminal curb is far more convenient terminal each day than a more distant, slower drop demanding a long walk with exposure to weather. Sincerely -Kent Berridge Flyer user Subject: Fwd: Metro Airport / Michigan Flyer From: Marc Murawski <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:18 am To: [email protected] Begin forwarded message:


> From: Marc Murawski <[email protected]> > Date: March 4, 2016 at 12:17:06 AM MST > To: [email protected] > Cc: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> > Subject: Metro Airport / Michigan Flyer > > I and almost everyone I know who travels frequently regard your airport as the worst in the world. I try hard to avoid it by flying into Toledo or Flint. The public transport in particular is the worst of any place I know in the world. You allow Metro Cabs to hustle travelers, and do all in your power to keep other operators, like the Michigan Flyer, inaccessible to the flying public. The way the airport operates feels like a scam with certain favored companies getting special treatment. The new attempt to massage the law to make other operators less competitive stinks, and is totally transparent to the traveling public. I hope that someone can document and expose what is going on at Detroit Metro and take it to a Grand Jury. I apologize in advance to any visitor that has to try to use public transport from Detroit Metro and tell them I will collect them from Toledo or Flint. Subject: Wayne County Airport Authority - please stop hindering Michigan Flyer services From: "Boughton, Duncan" <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 2:00 am To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Matt Michigan Flyer provides a reliable and cost effective service to Detroit-Metro airport for thousands of travelers. When you exiled Michigan Flyer to the Ground Transportation Center you successfully inconvenienced thousands of travelers who need to use the airport. While it is great that you are finally getting round to correcting that unnecessary inconvenience for disabled travelers by requiring Michigan Flyer to make an extra stop for them, why don’t you just let everybody get off at the same time? Please stop trying to “prove your point” with Michigan Flyer and give some consideration to your fee paying passengers. Thanks and best regards, Duncan Boughton Professor, International Development Michigan State University Subject: Ground Transportation Regulations From: Laurie Bergin <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 1:17 am To: [email protected]


Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hello. We understand there are new regulations regarding different drop offs pertaining to ground transportation passengers with disabilities and other passengers. It seems this confusing “solution” will take more time for everyone and is not more convenient nor closer than the policy that was in place for many years prior to 18 months ago. We would ask that instead, it is permitted for buses to load and unload Delta Airlines passengers at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal. That was safe, convenient, and accessible for all passengers—including seniors and people with disabilities. There was never a safety incident, and it made for happy passengers. Thank you for your consideration. Laurie Subject: Michigan Flyer new Regulations From: Nancy Pogel <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:50 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I am writing to take issue with new DTW/Michigan Flyer related regulations which would affect my husband (and me) adversely. He is a Parkinson's patient who is quite self-conscious about being singled out as disabled. While more convenient boarding for the Michigan Flyer would certainly be advantageous, drawing special attention to his disability would be unfortunate at several levels. The ADA rules that call for "integration" rather than separation underline my concern. What you should do is return the Flyer to a more convenient loading place, so all passengers, including the disabled, would not have to travel to the farthest possible location at the public transportation terminal in all sorts of weather. There must be a better way to accommodate passengers from East Lansing and Ann Arbor who choose to use the Michigan Flyer in order fly out of DTW. Flyer buses should not be delayed, and disabled people should not be embarrassed. Please reconsider your new ruling that is scheduled to take effect on March 14. We are returning to DTW on April 15, and will be using the Michigan Flyer at that time. Hopefully, our concerns will have been addressed with compassion before we return. Sincerely, Nancy Pogel Okemos


Subject: Ground Transportation Regulations at Detroit Metro From: Andrea Funkhouser <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:24 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] My husband and I have been frequent users of Michigan Flyer … an excellent service to those of us not living in the Detroit area. The change in pick up site has not been good, especially for those of us getting older (we are 77 and 81 years old) and having to handle luggage for longer distances. We are not technically disabled, but both of us are afflicted with heart problems (I have stents; my husband has a pacemaker), and I have a bad back. We would not be able to use the "new" service for the disabled. We want everyone to be able to more easily board the bus at the terminal exit area. The policy needs to go back to the way it was for years. Andrea Funkhouser Subject: Michigan Flyer: Loading and Unloading location, at the Detroit Metro Airport From: Roger L Halley <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 04, 2016 12:06 am To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] This subject may need serious review: We use the Michigan Flyer Bus Transit system for travel between Lansing and East Lansing and the Detroit Metro Airport. Please expedite the arrangements that are needed in order for the Michigan Flyer Bus passengers to load and unload at the McNamara Terminal, International Arrivals, dock or curb site. This site is a much safer, protected and accessible location than is the Bus stop located at the southern end of the huge parking garage. An Airport Authority is normally in the business of moving people in a satisfactory manor. Having passengers, walking through a huge parking garage, in all kinds of weather, is not contributing to their safety or convenience and is, certainly, not contributing to accessibility for those people with mobility limitations. Having the Michigan Flyer busses use the McNamara Terminal, International Arrivals Bus dock, rather than an exposed Bus Stop at the distant end of the parking ramp, would also considerably enhance the PR aspects of passenger experiences. Public Relations ( PR ) is an increasingly important component of any successful operation. Respectfully yours, Roger L. Halley


Okemos, MI 48864 Subject: New Regulations Affecting Michigan Flyer Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Joe Black" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 11:52 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear McGowan and the WCAA, The Michigan Flyer is an excellent service which my elderly parents use to commute to the Detroit Metro Airport from Lansing. While the airport should be encouraging people to use services such as Michigan Flyer, the policy changes made by the WCAA certainly does not reflect that. I urge you to reconsider the policy changes over the past 2 years and the recently announced changes going into effect this month. Make the drop off locations more convenient for all of the Michigan Flyer passengers by returning to the safe and convenient drop off location that was in place 18 months ago. Respectfully, Joe Black Subject: Michigan Flyer dropoffs From: Corey Rivera <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 11:51 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Having used the "improved" GTC pick up spot for the Michigan flyer, I have to say it was creepy and a hell of a long walk. Dropping off persons with disabilities at a separate location from the rest of the bus is a less than inspired solution to the complaints. The Michigan Flyer is one of the few widely successful ventures in a state whose public transportation options are limited and whose roads are dangerous due to traffic and pavement conditions. Be part of the solution. I don't require a reply- my tolerance for rhetoric grows thin during election season. ~C. E. Rivera Subject: Michigan Flyer bus to DTW From: cksnyderng <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 11:45 pm


To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Please find a way to go ask to the original drop off of all passengers on Delta and Air France to the international arrivals curb of McNamara terminal. There is no reason to have changed it in the first place. This is safer and easily accessible for people with handicaps. Subject: Michigan flyer: passengers safety and rights are threatened by WCAA From: Dena <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 11:15 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear WCAA administrators, It is my great regret to hear about the situations that Michigan flyer and its passengers have had to suffer from in the last 18 months due to the regulations the WCAA have been imposing. This letter is to express my support for Michigan flyer and thousands of Michigan residents and visitors who enjoy the services of this wonderful company, and request that WCAA grants Michigan flyer the original drop off/pick up location that it had used up until 18 months ago. I am a researcher and work on paralysis. Allow me to tell you that the difficulties paralyzed individuals and their families deal with goes beyond getting into and out of a bus. They can have extreme financial burden due to their condition, employment rate is low and the living condition is debilitating. The fact that WCAA has made it so difficult for disabled people for one year and a half is absolutely despicable and unacceptable. Now as pleased as I am that WCAA has finally heard the voice of ADA, I am shocked by the ways this organization is finding to make life once again difficult for everybody. Allow me to break it into two prospectives: 1) Disabled individuals and their families: By forcing disabled passengers to make a special request every time they use this public transportation, they will have to constantly be reminded that somehow they are different, they need special accommodation, and that they have to make everybody else wait for them before or after their already long travel day. Remembering how life can be less convenient for disabled individuals, making life more difficult for them for the political reasons and money saving factors (or so justified as safety reasons by the WCAA) is simply despicable and is not tolerated by public. 2) Abled body individuals who have to carry their luggages in the heat or extreme cold and wait outside for a bus: This sentence is already alarming the WCAA of the moral issues it comes with. I, however, would like to remind you of some very likely possibilities that will unfortunately happen sooner or later if WCAA does not change their regulations. In one extreme summer day, a baby waiting at the far bus stop exposed to the weather may faint and get a seizure; WCAA will be seeing legal law suits for this as it should. A cold day in Michigan (which is almost half of the year), any person of any age will get frost bites and may permanently lose a sensation. WCAA will be sued for its negligence and so rightfully so


once again. The life and well being of passengers are being threatened by the ignorant decisions that have been made in the last 18 months by the WCAA. I do hope the WCAA makes the right decision and return the right to Michigan flyer and its passengers and allow this wonderful organization to serve public and once again pick up and drop off passengers at the safe and convenient location that it had been using for many years until WCAA ruined things. Me and many passengers of Michigan flyer who have enjoyed its services will stand behind it in a legal action to make sure WCAA does not mistreat Michigan flyer and the people and visitors of the state of Michigan. Thank you for your attention and I thank you in advance for returning the situation back to what it was 18 months ago. From a Michigan resident Subject: Michigan Flyer and the ridiculousness going on at the Detroit Airport From: Linda Goetz <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 11:00 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, Do you have relatives that own a bus company that is NOT the Michigan Flyer? Because this bizarre retaliatory behavior to what I feel is the most superior bus service in the area has got to STOP. I do not live in Michigan, but have numerous relatives there and the bus, which provides wifi and extremely comfortable seats, is always my first choice. Why in the WORLD would you expose children, senior citizens and people with disabilities to the inclement weather that is part and parcel in Michigan? Why move their spot in the first place? It was perfect where it was and all this ridiculous moving around is bordering on the insane. Who has a vendetta against a bus company? Especially such a good one? Perhaps the Attorney General should do a little investigating into what stocks are held by people with power in this decision-making that has got to be against the law? Yours truly, Linda Goetz 521 Del Medio Ave #226 Mountain View, CA 94040 Subject: Michigan flyer


From: Ella Weber <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:58 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Concerned Parties, Throughout my undergraduate career, the Michigan Flyer ensured that I, a college student constantly worried about finances, could safely and affordably travel home to see my family. Having since moved to the east coast, I recently scheduled a flight home around the Flyer schedule, knowing it will keep my aging parents from having to drive several hours to pick me up. Without the Flyer, I would opt to spend more to fly into an airport closer to my home. I followed the previous adjustments to the Flyer closely and was dismayed to see how little the input of passengers meant to the airport. The current proposed changes will stigmatize riders in need of extra assistance and cause delays and unnecessary exposure to the elements for riders using the new drop off location. I am hopeful, however, that this round of considerations will serve to reexamine the original argument and respond in a manner that is advantageous for all riders. Thank you, Ella Subject: About Mi Flyer and common sense From: Beth <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:52 pm To: [email protected] Mr. Matt, I do not know if the decisions about the Michigan Flyer buses were your own or a committees or both. My question to you though is why. It seems these decisions are not in the best interests of your customers, who are also Michigan Flyers' customers, and that you should work to find an effortless flow of your mutual patrons to encourage the use of your airfields. I have read there are lawsuits etc and that well known people and entities are against your changes. With that many people stating that the moves made were not in the best interests of your customers, why persist? It is not shameful to say decisions made were in error and that status will be changed back to popular demand. In fact it is the most proper thing to do. You could say because of the influences and encouragement of our customers we are now going to return to services as they were. (No need for me to elaborate for you certainly know!). Why explain any more than that? Lawsuits will be dropped, efficiencies improved, traffic flow smooth and your customers delighted! Do the correct thing please to keep airfields, airlines and your customers happy. Thank-you.


Sincerely, Beth Subject: Michigan Flyer-AirRide bus drop off/ pickup locations at DTW From: Donna Pointer <[email protected]>) Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:49 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] These locations should all be in the same place close to the terminal entrance doors (the new stops for the disabilities passengers). All passengers should have the same rights. I would qualify for disability status, but I object to the other passengers’ being discriminated against. Subject: Michigan Flyer service stop changes at DTW From: Marian Reiter <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:48 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I have been a regular user of the Michigan Flyer for many years as are my family members, parents (who are wheelchair users), friends and MSU colleagues. Once again, I very disappointed at the news that the WCAA in forcing the Michigan Flyer to change drop off and pick up locations at DTW. Changing the location to 2 stops -- one for persons with disabilities and one for all others still makes absolutely no sense and is totally inefficient. There should be no difference in the location for pickup and stops for all passengers -- all should stop outside the international terminal waiting area as they did for several years with no problems. I hope the WCAA understands the business importance of having a dependable, alternative service like the Flyer. Multiple modes of transportation are very much needed in order to make DTW appealing to mid-Michigan travelers. Since I live in Lansing, I also have the options of booking out of Flint, Lansing, and Grand Rapids. With the Flyer's excellent service, I am more likely to select flights to/from DTW which is farther away. I'm not alone! Please don't mess up a great option for MSU, U of M students and staff, senior citizens, and many other mid-MI residents -- I encourage you to embrace and fully accommodate a reliable alternative transport service that makes DTW more accessible to all. It's just good business! Respectfully, Marian Reiter Haslett, MI


Subject: Pending changes in Michigan Flyer drop off sites at Metro Airport From: Lydia Bates <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:42 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sirs: I have been made aware of some additional new plans to relocate part of the drop off sites for passengers traveling to DTW from Ann Arbor on the Michigan Flyer. As one who has used and very much appreciated this relatively new service, I was appalled 18 months ago to see that you were requiring a new stopping point which was much less convenient than before under the guise of providing additional safety for passengers, when in fact it was much less convenient and more difficult for those who are handicapped in some way. I urge you to cancel your new plans to make the stops even more inconvenient because they will require people to declare their handicap which violates HIPPA rules on privacy and also will infuriate those passengers who are not handicapped but will now be required to wait for a second stop in order to get off. This will also prolong the whole trip for everyone on the bus. This is not in anyone's best interest except the Airport Authority who has a very poor track record of letting the airport be open to all licensed carriers in order to protect the interests of the existing in-house providers. You are a public authority and have an obligation to put the needs of the public ahead of the financial interests of the members of the authority. I know there are legal actions pending dealing with these concerns and your latest change is another example of providing less than optimal service to the passengers who make the airport a viable operation. Yours truly, Lydia R Bates Ann Arbor, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer bus and the disabled From: Madeleine Lenski <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:39 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA): My family frequently uses Michigan Flyer and finds it to be superb public transportation service - well run, comfortable, safety-minded, on time, a true pleasure to ride and indispensably helpful as an option for transportation needs. Several years ago when disabled by advanced Parkinson's, my stepfather arrived in DTW and used the Flyer to visit us in Lansing. At that time, the Flyer picked him up at the curb at McNamara terminal arrivals - and my mother who was assisting him was relieved at their ease of accessing the bus.


I'm dismayed that passengers like my stepfather now have such a long, tiring slog to use the Flyer in its current location at the outdoors Ground Transportation Center. This location is confusing to find, requiring multiple elevator rides. It's a long distance from baggage claim and difficult to negotiate for anyone encumbered by disabilities, mobility devices, and heavy luggage (including young families carrying children or pushing strollers, plus heavy child car seats). I'm also dismayed that WCAA's recently proposed solution to difficult access for the disabled is to create two stops for the Flyer - a cumbersome, discriminatory proposal - rather than admit that it was a poor idea to move the Flyer stop from its former curbside location in the first place. People like my stepfather coping with mobility logistics deserve thoughtful help and planning, not extra problems when they travel. The Flyer and its grateful passengers do not need any impediments to smooth service - just a safe, convenient place to stop once an hour at Arrivals. This is not rocket science, just empathy and good public policy to help a diverse community at all ages and stages get quickly and easily around for visiting, work, or getting home in Michigan! Sincerely, Madeleine Lenski East Lansing, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Vic Rauch <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:37 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Shame on you for further inconveniencing airport patrons who arrive and depart via Michigan Flyer. Vic Rauch [email protected] East Lansing, Michigan 517-881-9112 Subject: Indian Trails/Michigan Flyer From: aaa Moore <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:36 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, [email protected] Mr McGowan, Thank you for your time and service to the transportation industry. I am sure that you are an honest and hard working man and I am sure that your job is difficult with many competing demands. I am writing to


share my perspective, since I feel that the policies you are instituting will result in eliminating a large portion of your market share of travelers. Detroit has only one thing going for it, direct flights. Of the last 20 flights I have taken, I have only flown out of Detroit twice, and both times I used the Michigan Flyer. I much prefer direct flights, but the disorder at the Detroit Airport is not tolerable, unless I use the Michigan Flyer. I mostly fly out of Lansing, Flint and Grand Rapids. These locations are clean, convenient and completely focused on customer service. The parking is close, cheap and the staff are always right there to help you with your travel. Each of these cities have designed a marketing plan with the sole purpose of taking customers from you. The new way of doing business is through collaboration. Your airport benefits from the Michigan Flyer allowing people a convenient way to travel to and from the Detroit Airport. When you behave in a way that is antagonistic to your customers, you embarrass your agency. When you moved the Michigan Flyer stop, you were hurting passengers that frankly didn't want to use the Detroit Airport to begin with. It's dirty, disorganized, inefficient and the staff are outright hostile. Anyone in the modern day service industry knows that these are not desirable traits. One final tip. The staff at Indian Trails/Michigan Flyer have an excellent understanding of customer service. Even if it's all an act, I like it. The drivers, booking agents and marketing staff consistently show me and tell me that I am their top priority. It creates loyal customers. They communicate with me and any change is clear and respectful. In the race of public relations, Detroit Airport is coming in last. Even if you are not making these changes with the intention of deterring Detroit Airport customers, these changes appear hostile. You do not want to do that to your agency's reputation. The most recent actions do not reflect well on the Detroit Airport leadership. The travel industry has huge growth potential. I appreciate how hard you are working and I would suggest that collaboration will save you time, effort and grow your profits. Support travel to and from the Detroit Airport, restore the convenient Michigan Flyer pick up point. Sincerely, Amy Ann Moore 421 Whitehills Drive East Lansing, MI 48823 [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:33 pm To: "" <[email protected]> Cc: "" <[email protected]>, "" <[email protected]>, "" <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan, Please reconsider your decision to inconvenience Michigan Flyer riders. If a more convenient pick-up spot is going to be offered for challenged riders, it is ridiculous to require those not needing assistance



to wait in a less accommodating and more distant position. I find it unconscionable to stigmatize and segregate people with disabilities. This has the veiled appearance of an attack on Lansing and Ann Arbor patrons for whom this Michigan Flyer service is highly valued. It is also an obvious shift of responsibility of accommodation from the facilities shoulders to those of an outside service provider. I believe you should recognize the expectations of a world class transportation hub and provide convenience to all those going to and from the Michigan State and U of M communities. Thank you for your consideration on this matter. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, John R. Somers Subject: Re: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Becky Matz <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:32 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, Please end this ridiculous saga with the Michigan Flyer and restore the pickup and drop-off location in the McNamara terminal to the international arrivals level. The proposed segregated stops violate the ADA, and the current stop at the south end of the GTC did not "improve customer service" (unless perhaps WCAA is competing with Comcast for customer service awards). Give us a reason to believe that government works for the public good. Sincerely, Becky Matz, Ph.D. Subject: Changes for Michigan Flyer riders From: Gail Jorae <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:31 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt, Why do you try to make roadblocks and barriers for physically or mentally-challenged to lead a normal life. I have struggled all my life to do activities with my siblings, friends and co workers. The airport needs to return to the Michigan Flyer to original stops where we were all treated the same. The laws


were created, so we do have access, and do not have to be separate. Accessibility is for everyone. Please be kind, let Michigan Flyer let all its riders off and on at the original curb(s). Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Gail Elizabeth Jorae Subject: Regarding new "ground transportation regulations" From: Alex Neitzke <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:26 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To whom it may concern: In general, Michigan is far behind many other states and regions in providing public transportation options to and from major cities and airports. This change in regulations is yet another move that makes Michigan Flyer services more burdensome, and it is quite possibly illegal under the ADA. Allow drop off at the International Arrivals curb at McNamara, or at least at the GTC. Stop retaliating against AirRide and public transit, and stop violating the ADA. Make public options easier for Michigan, especially its working class and persons with disabilities. Sincerely, Alex Neitzke Subject: MI Flyer drop offs and pick ups From: Vicki Neiberg <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:17 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Convenience for all was provided by MI Flyer under previous rules. Now, since not allowing this drop off outside the waiting area, people are unsheltered and must walk a much longer distance. I'm 75. I have been flying out of DTW but I guess they do not want my business since I use the MI Flyer from East Lansing, MI. I'm not "disabled" but this added distance makes it very cumbersome for me. I have started using Flint and Grand Rapids Airports when I can. Why create this inconvenience in Detroit? vicki Neiberg 2140 Sandhill Rd. Mason, MI 48854 Subject: Unreasonable proposal from WCAA regarding passengers with disabilities From: W_ß <[email protected]>


Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:16 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Hello. I'm a regular customer of the Michigan Flyer and have enjoyed great service and excellent transportation solutions for several years while traveling to and from DTW. I was frustrated when Wayne County Airport Authority moved the Flyer's pickup point to the furthest possible location from the terminal, but at least I have had the benefit of an able body and good health so that I could walk that distance (despite the fact that I had to chug through what felt like a quarter mile of exhaust trapped in the bowels of the parking lot to get to the stop). Requiring people with physical disabilities to make the trek was ludicrous. Now, it has been brought to my attention that WCAA wants the Flyer to make additional stops just to drop off passengers with disabilities at separate locations. While that may cut down on the long journey that those passengers had to make, now it singles them out as "different" so that they have to identify themselves to qualify for the "special" stop. This is also poor customer service as other travelers will have to be told that they can't get off the bus yet unless they have a disability. The best solution here would be to restore the Michigan Flyer pick-up points to their prior convenient, accessible locations. We don't need to make this harder than it has to be. Thanks for your attention to this issue, Will Bick Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Sam Smith <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:07 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] What in the world prompted this change in location for bus pick-up and drop-off? Who will be using the space that the Michigan Flyer has been using when this goes into effect? What regulations require this change? Please respond! Subject: Air Ride From: Anne Wasciuk <[email protected]>) Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:01 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Please consider having all passengers enter the Air Ride bus close to a heated waiting room. It is not at all convenient to wait in the cold for the bus, especially for the elderly. Thank you,


Anne Heybey Wasciuk Ann Arbor Subject: handicap access at Metro airport From: "Menchik, Bettie" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:01 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> As regular riders on the Michigan Flyer, we are angered by potential changes to access for handicap riders (and its impact on those of us who are fortunate not to be handicapped) at Metro Airport. These changes violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” The changes would force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. The changes would shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. There is a definite potential for delays in the schedule of the MI Flyer as the buses would have potentially double the number of stops they make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in their schedule. I hope this action will be reconsidered. Bettie and Paul Menchik 4414 Cherry Hill Drive, Okemos, MI 48864 Subject: Stop the non-sense regulations against the Michigan Flyer Service From: Vilma Mesa <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 10:00 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, I am writing to protest continued arbitrary and inconvenient regulations and rules that you, as representative of the Wayne County Airport Authority, have been imposing on this community service.


The recent requirement to add stops in the airport MAKES NO SENSE. You want to present this under the aegis of being considerate to people with disabilities? it is wrong. With this mandate to have such stops you ARE DISCRIMINATING AGAINST people with disabilities, and you are in clear violation of the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” It is beyond my understanding the war you have been waging against a service that help many people, reduces congestion in drop off and pick up, saves time, energy, and fuel, and making the ride to the airport hassle free. It saddens me that you do not seem to have the public's interest as your priority. This is morally wrong. Please stop this non-sense regulations. Vilma Mesa. 3665 Bradford Square Drive Ann Arbor MI 48103 Subject: Detroit Metro New Drop-off (s) for MI Flyer Bus Passengers From: "Pat and Pam Walsh" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:59 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Sir: I must say it sounds like Detroit Metro is doing all it can to alienate customers at their airport. Here you have a public bus that will BRING YOU CUSTOMERS and you continue to make life miserable for them. What is your game plan? Are you trying to keep folks away from your terminal by making their trip as annoying as possible? The only way we will use Detroit Metro is if WE DO NOT have to drive (we live north of Lansing) and can have the Michigan Flyer take us. Now you want to change the drop-off (s) AGAIN. It is no wonder not only our family but many of our friends pay extra to fly out of Flint, Lansing or Grand Rapids. We just want to avoid the hassle. WACC seems to make decisions that aggravate people and to what end? The City of Detroit has enough headaches without these kinds of regulations that do not encourage those of us outside of the are to visit and fly. Please reconsider your latest “decision”. Pamela Y. Walsh St. Johns, MI Subject: inappropriate Michigan Flyer drop-off location


From: "Ron Osterman" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:47 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan, My family travels in and out of Detroit Metro airport at least 4 times a year and our preferred airline is Delta. In the past it was very convenient for us since the drop-off and pickup location was at the waiting area of the International Arrivals curb of the McNamara terminal. Now it is a long trek to the drop-off and pickup site. While we are healthy individuals with no mobility restrictions this presents an unnecessary inconvenience and stress for handicapped passengers. The proposed change to have two drop-off and pickup locations does not address this concern adequately. Now there will be additional delays getting to our airplane. In addition, it adds a stigma to those requiring handicapped access. If it is possible to drop off and pick up the handicapped individuals back at the International Arrivals door, what is the problem with having all passengers traveling with Michigan Flyer use this same location? Please be consistent for the benefit of all travelers. Sincerely, Ron Osterman [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Ingrid Liu <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:41 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Begin forwarded message: > From: Ingrid Liu <[email protected]> > Date: March 3, 2016 at 9:37:52 PM EST > To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> > > > We are in our 60s. Although we are not disabled, with luggages to walk that extra 200 yards to catch the airport bus is truly a challenge for us. Please make it easier for us by changing back the bus stop to its original place. Thank you. > Ingrid Liu Subject: Michigan Flyer - New Regulations Affecting Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Deb Onderko <[email protected]>


Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:40 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> As a consumer who has been recovering from a mobility injury I have to state that I believed that the American’s with Disabilities Act was enacted to ensure that ALL AMERICANS were treated equally. If I have to declare that I am disabled in addition to having the obvious physical constraints then I believe that I am being singled out as different. I believe that the changes being made at the Wayne Country Airport are unfair, un-American and against the law. I must say that I do bless the wonderful Sky Caps that are going above and beyond to accommodate folks in wheel chairs by taking us all the way from the Michigan Flyer designated area all the way through to our gates. They are the true heroes that are being compassionate regardless of the bureaucracy of the Wayne County Airport Authority. Good karma will come to all of those hard working men and women. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Regards, Deborah Onderko Onderko Consulting, LLC MCSE, CNE, CTT, A+, Former MCT & CNI [email protected] 239-287-6208 www.onderko.com Subject: Michigan Flyer From: MaryTaylor <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:38 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, I find it horribly discriminatory that you would "call out" those with disabilities and "make them" request an extra stop at the DTW airport if they ride along on the Michigan Flyer. It appears you, WCAA are upset, that Michigan Flyer is taking away potential cars that would be parking on site and making you thousands of dollars, if those choose to park there. I'm sure the executives from WCAA park their cars in a shuttle lot & don't mind waiting several minutes for a "nasty, dirty, rattling, old bus" vs. A clean, modern air bus ride in comfort, being dropped off in a VERY comfortable location to catch their plane. Your ability to make for an enjoyable dropoff or pick up from DTW would, in my opinion, would /could be the icing on the cake. Also, bringing more amenities to the DTW airport should, be your priority, not singling out those with special needs.


http://www.onderko.com/

Amenities such as a hospitality suite that serves full bar service, free appetizers, snacks - United Airlines is awesome at IAD, perhaps you could focus on how WCAA could SERVE ALL the travelers in a proactive way, not Reactive to competition. Consider a play area for small children, family friendly restaurants that are inexpensive yet healthy. More comfortable waiting areas at the gates. Why would you-WCAA do something so mean, vindictive, & unchristian to your neighbor. I'm so disappointed that you would CONTINUE to tarnish your reputation at DTW. I think you are like the naught KID-ANY attention is better than no attention. You still have time to do the right thing. Suck it up & change the stops for Michigan Flyer what there were 18 months ago. Sincerely, Mary Taylor A frequent flyer in Michigan Subject: WCAA's Covert Plan to Further Discriminate against the ADA From: David Guerra <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:36 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hello Matt, I am a Michigan resident who frequently uses the DTW airport. I think your proposed plans are going against the intentions of the ADA. If members of our communities are forced to declare their disabilities and be recognized publicly by offering a separate dropoff location then it will further seed a sentiment of shame and segregation that those with disabilities will feel. I am a cancer survivor and have felt those feelings whenever I had to declare my disabilities or park in a handicap spot and get off of my car. I think these actions will replicate those feelings for people with disabilities that use the Michigan Flyer. Only 18 months ago all passengers were disembarked at a closer location which benefited all passengers equally. Please revoke your actions and allow equal treatment for all passengers! With Gratitude, David C. Guerra, E.I. MBA Candidate, Class of 2017 E-Mail: [email protected] | Cell: (305) 322-6295 Subject: Michigan Flyer Service at Detroit Metro Airport


From: Lisa Jackson <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:33 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I was dismayed to hear of the changes at Metro Airport that impact the Michigan Flyer. I have two college students who regularly use the service. Although they don't have disabilities, I, and many others I know, are concerned about the lack of consideration shown to those who need accommodations. Creating separate accommodations now seems eerily similar to "separate but equal" laws of the past. The Airport Authority needs to restore access to Michigan Flyer riders in an integrated manner. Lisa Jackson Pittsfield Twp, MI Subject: Fwd: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:29 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hi Matt, good evening! I would like to relay my support to Michigan Flyer's cause as I love the convenience of the service above all else. Should the changes mandated by WCAA do in fact get implemented, my decision to ride with Michigan Flyer may be affected. Thanks, Sarah Jean Subject: Concerned about Detroit Airport , PC Crap and or more Delays? We flew out of Detroit this last week but will likely seek other airports in the future From: James McNeilly <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:28 pm To: Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> We are from Lansing. We flew out of Detroit and despite arriving early were delayed through an ENORMOUS line sprawling through the terminal. One of our party was separated and for search and yet got on the plane that was announcing on the intercom 30 seconds for us to be at the door as it was closing. She was sitting on the plane wondering if she should get off and miss the flight or proceed to Louisiana and hope to catch up with us if we could get another flight. I found this very upsetting and a


stressful way to travel. We have 2 times in the past used the Michigan Flyer and found the problems to be within the airport. I am a pilot and use commercial transportation when needed. I am also a 30+year business owner who cannot understand how these changes increase customer safety or access efficiency and then are rewoven into some sort of an improvement. In fact it seems to imply that with the main reason being security and safety that disabled persons are less of a safety risk. It seems to indicate there is more than meets the eye. Despite the concerns being voiced regarding the decreased access from other officials that see this as an unreasonable action and hindrance to those of us who value our time. We are willing to accept a bit of convenience in regards to safety even if it has stopped nothing to date. If other vehicles are allowed to drop passengers off at the terminal or closer than you are allowing these professional shuttle services then you are clearly motivated by reasons other than those given. You are in effect saying Michigan Flyer and their customers - who are your renter's customers are not as welcome as people with disabilities or arrive by other means. Despite almost having our party separated and the TSA being overwhelmed by the number of people trying to make their early morning flights, we were very impressed by the professional manner in which Southwest presented their personal thanks individually to each passenger boarding and exiting their planes. They took the opportunity to thank us for choosing them as their service provider. I think that based on this ongoing fight that seems to contain more than unreasonable additional hardship on passengers, you might rethink your approach towards service. The more time and effort invested during a day to complete a flight, the less efficient flying becomes. With 4 of us flying to New Orleans last time and having drove it before, we are interested in saving money, time and effort. Anything you can do to improve service and connections is a plus. Doing things that seems disconnected and inefficient push people away. My son is going to Mich Tech and has just been chosen for an internship with Disney. I plan to travel a few times between states and would likely be using the Michigan flyer to save a little coming down from Lansing. It is these kind of inconveniences that will be considered when I make plans to fly or drive. It took me a while to write all this and I guess it just shows that convenience matters and even though this might not make a difference to you, we are sincere and it makes a difference to us. In these difficult times we are stretching our budget and making the best of our time. Please reconsider the optics of this and of those who want to feel welcome at DTW. James McNeilly Subject: The Michigan Flyer From: Roberta <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:25 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan:


What kind of nonsense is this - the Michigan Flyer can't drop people off at their appropriate terminals? My daughter is a student at MSU and her way in and out of the airport is the Michigan Flyer. She is usually schlepping a huge suitcase and a full bag of books. As you know the weather in Michigan is harsh in the winter. The ride from MSU is already 2 hours - do we really need to add more inconvenience to airport travel? The bus is used by people that don't have transportation to the airport or students that cannot afford a $150.00 taxi ride. If you want to support out of state students coming to Michigan to study, you need to help make it convenient for them to get back and forth from their homes. Best regards, Roberta Farhi Subject: Michigan Flyer treatment From: William Wilson <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:25 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Hi! I just want you to know that I'm disgusted with your treatment of Michigan Flyer. Michigan Flyer offers economical, environmentally friendly options to travelers and you want to take these away, presumably steering passengers toward more lucrative taxi and limo services or on- or near-airport parking. Playing games to try to discourage this important service is inappropriate and you should be ashamed of using such transparently disingenuous tactics. Fix this at once, please. Bill Wilson Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations re ADA From: Gregg Loew <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:24 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, Section 13 of the Ground Transportation Regulations appears to be well intended, but I believe it is flawed in that insisting that disabled passengers must request a stop at a designated disabled-only stop or pickup makes an unnecessary separation between able-bodied and disabled passengers. The regulation seems to make it a crime (a misdemeanor) for a driver to let an able-bodied off or on a bus that has been designated for disabled passengers. It is a crime for an able-bodied person to politely get


off the bus, after disabled persons disembark at a designated stop? When I take the bus around the city I live in, disabled and able-bodied passengers ride together with ease and comfort. I would guess, Mr. McGowan, that you are not physically disabled. I only make this conjecture because I am not physically disabled, and I sometimes find myself unable to view some everyday experiences with empathy for the disabled. It can be a bit embarrassing, but I appreciate it when someone points out my misconceptions. Thanks for your consideration, Gregg Gregg Loew [email protected] Subject: FW: New Regulations for Michigan Flyer Passengers From: "Bartelme, Ricardo" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:19 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> From: Bartelme, Ricardo Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 9:13 PM To: [email protected] Subject: New Regulations for Michigan Flyer Passengers To Whom It May Concern: I'm in strong disagreement with the proposed new regulations requiring public transportation buses like Michigan Flyer to now stop at two places when coming to the DTW airport, presumably to accommodate persons with disabilities. This adds more time and burden for everybody and unnecessarily separates people with disabilities form all others. Before 18 months ago, Michigan Flyer had a safe, and convenient drop off point for all passengers, then you changed the rules and require Michigan Flyer to drop off way at the end of the terminal and make the passengers walk more and also be exposed to the cold weather in the winter. You don't even given sufficient notice for public comment! How fair is this? You need to reconsider what is your public mission and stop being so obstructionist in your "regulations". Sincerely, Ricardo Bartelme



Subject: WCAA and MI Flyer From: Patricia Stevenson <[email protected]> To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> To whom this concerns, I am writing in response to the email I received from Michigan flyer recounting the WCAA's latest bullying tactics. It seems clear to me that the WCAA has an agenda that they will employ any manor of Goliath versus David tactics to further. And this is obviously without genuine concern for the consumers, disabled or not, who use Metro Airport for their travel needs. Michigan flyer has made it possible for me to fly out of Metro airport. I live over 2 hours from Metro. I am no longer comfortable driving in the heavy traffic due to my diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and the symptoms that I experience because of that. With MI Flyer I can catch the bus in East Lansing and be provided with basically a door to door service which is invaluable to someone with a disability. The absurd suggestion that there should be one spot to drop people with disabilities and another for 'regular' people to be dropped off is unbelievable. It is blatant discrimination! Where's the NAACP on this one? Should those of us with disabilities sit at the back of the bus too?! Or, look at it in the reverse for all those 'regular' people who are supposed to be dropped at a second site. Whatever way you look at it, the WCAA is discriminating against a whole section of the population. Metro is a pretty big airport with a whole lot of curb footage. I am of the opinion that the MCAA has enough curb that it could accommodate the drop off and pick up of all passengers using some form of public transportation to the airport. More people using bus transportation to and from the airport just might cut down on automobile emissions/pollution and contribute to a more positive air quality as well. It's simply shameful that the MCAA finds it necessary to send MI Flyer buses out into the back forty to drop off and pick up passengers. This blatant disregard and perhaps even contempt for MI Flyer passengers is the result of the MCAA having their own agenda which clearly is not concerned for the good or safe travel of citizens using Metro airport. Shame on the WCAA! Patricia Stevenson Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Rafael Haro <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:15 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I´m from Mexico and fly to Detroit 2 to 4 times a year to visit my step daughter´s family in the Lansing area, and have been doing this for 10 years, always complementing the air portion with the land portion by way of Michigan Flyer. About two years ago things changed a little but not for good, the location of the pickup and drop off area was changed 200 yards which in bad weather matters a lot. Now it seems that the WCAA is trying to apparently get things better for elderly and disabled passengers (my wife is 68 years old and I´m 71) when all they have to do is return to the old way, but some agenda (hidden or stupid but always ridiculous) is an obstacle to do the right thing.


PLEASE, do the right thing. Respectfully, Rafael Haro with Patricia de la Fuente Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Jennifer Wolf <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:13 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Most of our family uses Michigan Flyer service to and from the airport, including my 84 y.o. mother-in-law. The recent changes in service (the drop-off/pick-up locations) meant picking her up from the airport and, in turn, some loss of independence for her. She does not consider herself disabled and would not ask for handicap service. Yet, in fact, her spinal degeneration makes it difficult for her to navigate uneven ground (curbs) and longer distances. She is also of the generation that "makes do." We are fortunate in that we can go pick her up and are delighted to do that for her. But that is not the case for many other people using Michigan Flyer - it is not only college students on board. Please consider reinstating the original pickup/drop off location. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Jennifer Wolf Ann Arbor Subject: Why? From: "Eliot, Holly" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:12 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, I am astonished to read that the WCAA is about to make my travel arrangements much more inconvenient and onerous. I am not officially disabled, but I am a 62-year-old woman with bad knees. I use the Michigan Flyer bus service to get to and from Detroit Metro Airport. Why would you make me walk a whole lot further from my bus stop to the McNamara Terminal? The regulations clearly give you the right to dictate where the bus drops people off, but trying to get passengers to decide if they're disabled enough to demand a stop just adds a whole additional level of confusion and delay. Please don't do this. We seniors can have more clout than you know, and believe me we will use it if you move forward with the "two bus stop" plan.


Sincerely, Holly Eliot, MBA Project Manager University of Michigan Transplant Center Subject: (no subject) From: Lucinda Rose <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:10 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I am writing in regard to your changing the pickup and drop off areas for passengers of Michigan Flyer. I have researched this issue and am very unhappy with the handling of this situation and decisions you have made. I can only hope that you will reconsider and listen to your paying customers. I use Michigan Flyer and appreciate their service. I hope you will appreciate your customers and accommodate us. Thank you, Lucinda Casey Subject: About Detroit Metro's "New Ground Transportation Regulations" From: robert victor <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:10 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sirs, I frequently use the Michigan Flyer bus to take me to the Detroit Metropolitan Airport for travel to remote destinations. Why is WCAA insisting that most travelers who arrive/depart by Michigan Flyer Bus be dropped off/picked up at a location often exposed to outdoor temperatures 600 feet away from indoor Airport facilities such as check-in counters and the waiting room? The new “Ground Transportation Regulations” could take effect as soon as March 14, a time of year not noted for nice weather in Michigan, with little or no public notice of these regulations, not even a timely posting on their website.


In part, the new regulations would potentially require each Michigan Flyer-AirRide bus to make two stops instead of one at both DTW terminals—one stop for any disabled passengers who ask to be dropped off or picked up closer to the terminal, and a second stop for everyone else at their “standard” location. For example, at the McNamara Terminal (Delta Airlines and Air France) this would mean that disabled passengers could request pickup at Door 402 of the GTC (just outside the waiting room) while all other passengers would be picked up 200 yards away, at the far south end of the parking garage, which is often exposed to very cold or very hot weather. Two days ago, WCAA issued a press release with the headline “Detroit Metro Airport plans to expand choices for travelers with disabilities.” Although the announcement touted the convenience of the new, separate drop-off and pick-up options for people with disabilities, it failed to mention the fact that all public transportation passengers, including those with disabilities, enjoyed an even more convenient and accessible location 18 months ago. Among my concerns about the new regulations are that they would: (1) Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” (2) Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to Michigan Flyer in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals -- potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. (3) Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. (4) Potentially double the number of stops MI Flyer makes at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in traveler's arrival and departure times. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in my view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. Please do not allow these illogical forced reductions in service and increased discrimination between the people served to go into effect. Robert Victor [email protected] 109 Bessemaur Dr. East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations


From: Jadwiga Sipowska <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:05 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I have learned about new Ground Transportation Regulations re: airport stops of Michigan Flyer busses. The current locations of stops works just fine for all passengers. Therefore I find the idea of having separate stops for disabled and other passengers totally unnecessary or, more accurately, inconsiderate. I am a 71 old woman with no confirmed disability but not at the peak of physical shape. Will I qualify to take off at the stop for disabled passengers? At this age every day brings changes. Should I act in advance to get a disability proof? I am sure many people about my age will assume that they qualify to take off at the most convenient stop. Who will decide and how it will be executed whether they can or cannot. A driver? Do not they have enough to worry about? I do hope that this is not a final decision and that the opinion of frequent users of this service will be taken into account. Sincerely, J.T. (Dotie) Sipowska, Ph.D. Kasimir Fajans Collegiate Lecturer Coordinator, General Chemistry University of Michigan Department of Chemistry 3545 Chemistry Ann Arbor, MI 48109 phone: (734) 764- 8527 Subject: New Detroit Metro Airport regulations From: Mary Fielding <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:04 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Mr. McGowan: I strongly urge reconsideration of the new Detroit Metro Airport regulations that will affect drop-off and pick-up of passengers of the Michigan Flyer. In fact, it is not only the new regulations that are of concern but also the earlier decision (approximately 18 months ago) to require that the longstanding, convenient Michigan Flyer station at the airport be changed to an unsafe and inaccessible location. That


earlier decision was clearly one that was not in the best interests of passengers, causing unnecessary stress and inconvenience. As for the new regulations, which address pick-up and drop-off sites for individuals with disabilities, just a cursory review of the regulations reveals that reconsideration is sorely needed. For one, to require persons with disabilities to identify themselves and to use different procedures than more able-bodied individuals is discriminatory. Second, it is of great concern to me that the proposed system will cause delays in ground transportation, increased congestion and pollution at the airport, and a needless waste of nonrenewable resources (i.e., fuel). Third, the proposed system may encourage many passengers, regardless of their ability status, simply to avail themselves of the more convenient station that is ostensibly reserved for individuals with disabilities, thus rendering the two-stop system wholly unnecessary and farcical. I understand that WCAA argues that the two-stop system is akin to allowing individuals with disabilities to board a plane before other, more able-bodied individuals. The analogy is not apt. Just as individuals with disabilities may board a plane before others, bus passengers may be shown that courtesy when they board at the same site as others. In sharp contrast to the proposed new system for bus passengers, all passengers of a plane board at the same site and are equally inconvenienced in accessing that site. I myself have often sought and used alternatives to Detroit Metro for my air travel. The move of the Michigan Flyer pick-up and drop-off location to an inconvenient location is one of the reasons that travel from the airport has become less desirable for me. Mary Fielding East Lansing, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer service at Detroit Metro Airport From: "Blair, David E." <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 9:03 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, We have just learned from the Michigan Flyer that you are making some changes to your pickup and drop off procedures at the Detroit Metro Airport. It seems to us that you are only continuing to make it more difficult and frustrating to passengers both disabled and not disabled. Your location a couple of years ago was much more convenient; then you moved it to the far south end of the Ground Transportation Center about 200 yards from the door. We recently were lead down to this location by the attendant in the waiting room 10 minutes before the bus was due to arrive and organized everyone’s luggage. He said that the bus would arrive shortly but it did not come for another half hour. It was a very cold evening (13 degrees as I recall) and the passengers were very unsettled by this experience.


Now it seems you want to make separate stops for disabled passengers which for drops means another loop around to get to the Departure Level. For pickups the bus would stop at the door of the Ground Transportation Center for the disabled passengers and then again 200 yards later to the south. In our view everyone would be better served if you simply let everyone on and off near the door and not make the additional stops. It would even be better to return to the International Arrivals curb as you did before. It is our hope that you will move to a more natural and convenient procedure for all. Sincerely yours, David E. Blair Rebecca A. Blair Subject: New Ground Transportation Regulations From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:59 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan - I just learned of the new ground transportation regulations that are scheduled to go into effect at Detroit Metropolitan Airport this month, and want to share my concerns with you. I live in East Lansing and have used the Michigan Flyer bus service to get to/from Detroit Metro at least two or three times each year for the past several years. Even though I would like to support my local Lansing airport, I often find that taking the Michigan Flyer to Detroit Metro is more convenient and economical than flying from my home airport. More importantly, Michigan Flyer has consistently provided outstanding service, with an excellent on-time record and a great safety record. I did not understand why the regulations changed about 18 months ago, requiring Michigan Flyer passengers to walk from the far end of the parking garage to reach the place where they enter the terminal (and vice versa when leaving the airport). It seemed to me that these regulations were designed solely to have a negative impact on Michigan Flyer's business, because they certainly provided no advantage to passengers riding this bus. In particular, they had a negative impact on older, less mobile passengers and passengers with disabilities. From what I heard, the reason for that change was "safety' but again, I did not understand how making travelers walk farther to get their bus would have a positive impact on safety, especially when Michigan Flyer had never had any sort of safety problems at the airport. Now the new regulations will require Michigan Flyer to make two stops at each terminal - one close to the terminal for disabled passengers, and one at an inconvenient distance away for all other passengers. What is the purpose of this? As I understand the ADA, accommodations for people with disabilities should be made in as transparent way as possible. With this new plan, people will need to tell their


driver that they are disabled, and then get on/off the bus in front of other passengers (and passers-by), which takes away any degree of transparency. Also, what is to prevent a non-disabled passenger from saying they are disabled so they can get on/off the Michigan Flyer at the terminal? Many disabilities are not readily visible, so this would be easy to do. I doubt that the WCAA wants to have a staff member on hand to try to verify that each person who gets on/off by the terminal has a qualifying disability - and even if someone tried to do this, it would create nothing but discomfort for passengers and potential legal issues. I hope that the WCAA will reconsider these new regulations and drop them in favor of common-sense policies that are reasonable and customer-friendly. Ideally, I would like to see the WCAA restore the ability of the Michigan Flyer buses to pick up and drop off passengers at the McNamara terminal, because this is the safest and most convenient option for your airport passengers. Thank you for your attention to my concerns. Patrice Klein East Lansing, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Norma Barquet <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:57 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I come quite regularly to MI to visit my children who live in Ann Arbor. The Michigan Flyer is the most convenient way for me to get to and from the airport to Ann Arbor. In fact, it is such a great service that I am always telling friends and family about this wonderful service. The Michigan Flyer is convenient; it is green because there are less cars on the road, particularly during bad weather; it is safer because my children don’t have to drive a car to the airport; it saves gas which is a way to use less natural resources. All around it is an economical and ecological way to travel. This last time I came to Ann Arbor, I had to wait outside for approximately 30 minutes and it was freezing cold. I have a condition where when cold my back hurts to the point I have to be medicated. Also, the walking and carrying bags is a huge hardship for people like me. The glass shed by the bus stop was not warm enough so it did not help to go in them. Furthermore, like me, there were other middle-aged people by the current outdoor waiting area and they too were adversely affected by the weather. So, I am urgently asking you to go back to the original pick up area by the airport arrival or departure doors. Your assistance with this request will be greatly appreciated. Norma Barquet, Ed.D. PO BOX 1816 ORLEANS, MA 02653 347-682-6378


[email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer and DTW From: Daniel Horner <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:57 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I completely agree with the position of the Michigan Flyer regarding the new passenger drop off locations mandated by DTW. Please address this issue that affects so many travelers, but most importantly those with disabilities and the elderly(People you as an elected official are most responsible to protect). I thank you for your time and consideration regarding this issue that is important thousands of travelers who utilize this formerly very convenient service. Take care, Dan Horner, MD dan.p.horner@gmail Ann Arbor, MI Subject: MichiganFlyer drop off and pick up locations at DTW From: Nancy French <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:52 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr McGowan - I have taken advantage of the great service they the MichganFlyer has provided via Indian Trails. I am impressed by the cost and convenience of this service for getting to and from Ann Arbor and the airport. I understand from some communication to me that there is a plan to modify the locations of drop-off and pick-up at the Delta terminal, and that it will mean people with disabilities will have a close connection to the airport that able-bodied people will not have. This seems a bit unfair and contrary to the intention of the ADA, which requires that services for the disabled be equal to services for the general public. As an able-bodied citizen, I ask that this plan be re-considered with regard to the inconvenience it gives to all involved. An extra stop, and a stop further from the terminal for able-bodied people, is not helpful. Thank-you for your consideration, as this service has been very helpful to the community.



Sincerely, Nancy French Dexter, Michigan 48130 Subject: AirRide Pick Up "Ground Transportation Regulation" From: Joan Burleigh <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:51 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I am a 73 year woman who is very appreciation of the fine service AirRide provides from Ann Arbor to the Detroit Metro Airport. I especially appreciated the pick-up in the International Arrivals area where one could wait for the bus while seated in a climate controlled environment. The new “regulations” would continue the inconvenience of the current pick-up location. And, having a separate stop for handicapped, rather than returned to the original pick-up point makes no sense. As a retired public school administrator I know that handicapped persons are to be accommodated in the most integrated manner, the least restrictive environment. We included disabled students in all of our mainstream classes, not separated from other students. Returned to the original pick-up point would allow you to accomplish this and also better serve older people like myself who benefit from AirRide service. AirRide does a great job of reducing congestion at the airport; I would think you would want to support their fine service, Yours truly, Joan T. Burleigh 1021 Chestnut Street Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Subject: MI Flyer Pick Up location From: Grau Jennie <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:50 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to object to your latest two party class system for MI Flyer Bus passengers.


I am a frequent traveler. I have always been embarrassed by the fact that Detroit maybe the only major city airport in the USA that is inaccessible by public transportation. The MI Flyer is at least a small step in this direction. I find the lack of public options appalling. I have a visual disability that makes driving difficult and while this does not impact my ability to walk or stand, I have tremendous empathy for those who have these difficulties. The MI Flyer provides an easy, affordable, environmentally sound way to fly in and out of Detroit. Sadly your earlier policy to move its pick up location 200 feet from the door at the McNamara Terminal makes this a much more difficult option for many with disabilities. You told us this was necessary for our safety. However now it seems our safety is not really the issue, at least not for disabled passengers. While I applaud your return to using the 402 door as a drop off location, I object to your latest two party service system for MI Flyer Bus passengers. The pick up location in front of door 402 provides both shelter and proximity for passengers. Your claims that there are safety concerns regarding this location seemed self serving when they were first announced and now seem even more so. It seems your intent is to protect the taxi monopoly and to make operating this kind of a shuttle service more difficult for all involved. Now it appears that the so called safety concerns don't apply to people with disabilities. Either the area is safe or it isn't and frankly I believe it has always been safe. So stop playing games and driving customers to Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Flint airports. If you will now allow this location to be used, let it be used for everyone. Jennifer M. Grau, President Grau Interpersonal Communication 517-484-5756 Eastern www.grauic.com Subject: Transportation regulations From: Denise Carr <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:49 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I have read your proposal for a separate pick up and drop off for disabled passengers for the Michigan Flyer at DTW. Why not one stop that is convenient for all? That way passengers who need to be let off closer to the terminal will not feel that they have inconvenienced others; the trip will not take longer, and regular passengers will benefit from more direct access to the terminal. Let's do all we can to encourage public transportation, for everyone's sake. The more time the Flyer takes, the less likely people are to use it. Improve access for everyone, and everyone will benefit. Don't single people out when it isn't necessary. Denise Carr East Lansing MI


http://www.grauic.com/

Subject: Re: Unreasonable, Unbelievable, Unneeded Michigan Flyer Regulations From: Greg and Anne Clites <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:48 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> I'm glad (sarcasm) that you have an automated reply to insulate you from real people. Your "transparency" is laughable.

From: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> To: Greg and Anne Clites <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, March 3, 2016 7:33 PM Subject: Re: Unreasonable, Unbelievable, Unneeded Michigan Flyer Regulations March 3, 2016 Dear Valued Traveler, I appreciate your previous interest in ground transportation operations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and would like to share some upcoming improvements our team is making to enhance service and ensure we are fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers. That service commitment helps define who we are as an organization, is fundamental to what we believe and has helped our airport achieve broad success and customer recognition as one of the finest and preferred large air transportation facilities in the world. Based on collaboration, feedback and recommendations from our federal partners, ground transportation operators and industry experts within the disability community, we are adding new ground transportation pick-up and drop-off accommodation options to better serve travelers with disabilities, regardless of which ground transportation service or provider, they choose. This new, additional level of service will not inconvenience other customers because the ground transportation providers will always go to their familiar, assigned positions in the Ground Transportation Center (GTC). Any customer with a disability can choose to continue to use the current accessible ground transportation locations or take advantage of these new, closer pick-up and drop-off areas. For Ground Transportation at the McNamara Terminal: For Travelers Departing from the Airport on a Flight: Ground transportation operators dropping-off passengers will proceed to their normal positions in the Ground Transportation Center at the McNamara Terminal. Anyone who wishes to take advantage of the additional service option can simply stay on the vehicle and it will swing around to the terminal departures curb, closer to airline check-in and passenger screening.


For Travelers Arriving at the Airport on a Flight: Similarly, ground transportation operators picking-up arriving travelers will proceed to their normal positions in the McNamara Terminal Ground Transportation Center. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the additional arrival service option can arrange for pick-up with their ground transportation provider just outside of Door 402 of the GTC, which is just feet from the enclosed area. For Ground Transportation at the North Terminal: At the North Terminal Ground Transportation Center, Bay Five, closest to the enclosed area of the GTC, will be reserved for departing and arriving customers choosing the new, additional service option. As always, we remain committed to balancing the unique and diverse needs of all our customers, while ensuring safe and efficient operations in our busy, dynamic and critically-important transportation gateway. We appreciate your help and support in this and all areas. For additional information regarding this announcement, ground transportation or airport accessibility in general, please visit our website atwww.metroairport.com and feel free to share with others who may be interested. If you have any specific questions, comments or concerns, please contact me directly. Very truly yours, Thomas Naughton CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority Detroit Metropolitan Airport/Willow Run Airport

On Mar 3, 2016, at 7:26 PM, Greg and Anne Clites <[email protected]> wrote: > Mr. McGowan: > > The Michigan Flyer is the most convenient and safest way to get to/from Metro Airport. Your regulations of 18 months ago were shocking. Now, I have to walk farther and across a LOT more traffic. > > Apparently, you are "doubling down" on your previous mistake, making each trip longer with an extra stop. If you make 2 stops, I will ask to be dropped off at the disabilities drop-off. And, I will encourage all passengers to be "disabled". > > The only reason I can fathom to go to this trouble to hurt Flyer passengers is that taxi-cabs don't like the competition. > > Please go back to the arrangement of 18 months ago and stop trying to justify your silliness. > > Greg and Anne Clites > Ann Arbor


Subject: Michigan Flyer at DTW From: "Isaacs, Rufus" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:45 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Matt McGowan Director, Landside Services Detroit Metro Airport Dear Mr McGowan I am writing to you tonight to register my concern for the way Michigan Flyer passengers are being treated at DTW. As a resident of Lansing, this is the primary airport that I leave and enter Michigan through, either by flying there for a connecting flight, by driving to DTW, or by taking the Michigan Flyer. This year, I have already flown through your airport twice, and I have three more trips scheduled through there in the next two months. I like flying through DTW and it is part of why I am a loyal Delta customer for my domestic and international flights. The services within the airport are exemplary and the new upgrades have raised the bar for customer service. However, this is not the case for transportation options to the airport and I am very concerned about the recent changes to the accessibility of DTW for able-bodied and disabled passengers coming on the Michigan Flyer. There are many reasons that people take this service, sometimes because connecting flights are often not at a convenient time, sometimes they are much more expensive, and sometimes they don’t want to pay the parking fees for multiple days. Some may also see this as an efficient approach with a lower carbon footprint. In general the airport is not well served by public transportation (no train line, few bus lines), so there are not many options to get there if you don’t have a car. The recently announced plan to provide separate pickups for disabled passengers will create greater inconvenience, I expect also greater confusion, and will set a divisive precedent for how the airport treats its customers. Why is it so hard to have a convenient and close pickup and drop off point for buses at the McNamara terminal? In my trips on the Michigan Flyer the drivers have been very efficient at loading and unloading passengers and I can’t understand why space is so difficult to find at the terminal to allow buses to deliver and collect their passengers. It seemed to work just fine a few years ago before the location was changed. I am confident that the airport can do better, and I urge you to work with your customer and service industry stakeholders to develop different solutions that allow all customers easy access to the terminals. Thanks for your time, Rufus Isaacs Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824


Subject: Michigan Flyer @ Detroit Metro From: Carol Faith <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:43 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] Bill Schuette, Susan DeClercq and Gordon MacKay This is a copy of my letter sent to Matt McGowan Why are you again trying to fix something that was not broken? When the Michigan Flyer first started their service we had very a very convenient and safe location for boarding and unboarding our bus. This the second time that you and others that do not use the service have made changes that are inconvenient for those of us that travel many mile to use the air service. After reading your changes and reading the articles in both Detroit Newspapers I do not see the need to have separate stops several hundred feet apart. If we all got of our bus at the same stop just maybe some of us would help assist those who need help and you could save a lot of money and disruption for your customers. Carol Faith Lansing MI. Subject: New Ground Transportation @ DTW From: Robert Oberlander <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:43 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: I am writing to request that you move the general (for disabled and other passengers) pickup location back to DTW's McNamara Terminal. It was safer and more convenient for all passengers. My daughter is a student at the University of Michigan and she mentioned the current pick-up location is not as safe as McNamara Terminal. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Robert Oberlander


Subject: New ground transportation regulations From: Susan Freeman <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:38 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> As grandparents from California, we regularly visit our daughter, her husband and our grandchildren who live in Ann Arbor. We make frequent use of Michigan Flyer. Their service excels. The new planned ground regulations violate ADA, decrease accessibility for all passengers and double the number of stops. WE STRONGLY OBJECT TO THESE REGULATIONS. DO NOT IMPLEMENT THEM. Thank you. Susan and Gordon Freeman Subject: Disappointed with the WCAA From: Juliet Guzzetta <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:37 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan: I am very disappointed to learn of WCAA’s ongoing challenges and hassles directed towards the Michigan Flyer, a service I greatly appreciate in a state that sorely lacks public transportation. Whatever insipid political motivations at stake on your end, that bottom line is that these actions make it harder on everyday people who are just trying to get their bus to get home after a trip and now needlessly schlep across McNamara terminal to the far end since you moved the Flyer’s pick-up location 18 months ago based on entirely specious logic. Much more disconcerting is the recent directive for disabled people to declare their disability and board the bus at a separate location. Shall they also wear some sort of markers to further distinguish them from abled bodies? This is highly problematic and outright discriminatory, and I hope you rescind this preposterous proposal immediately. Sincerely, Juliet Guzzetta Subject: Proposed disability stops at McNamara terminal From: Stephan Nason <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:35 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>


As a passenger who has used AirRide from Ann Arbor, I'm appalled by the proposed scheme you have developed to get around the inconvience you have caused for all passengers and especially disabled passengers. While I'm not disabled in anyway that would be defined medically, I am 71 years old and have found that the system which moved from curbside pickup to Ground Transportation Center to be combersome. In all the years I used Michigan Flyer (before moving to Ann Arbor), I never experienced or observed what I considered to be unsafe conditions at curbside pickup. I do feel unsafe conditions have been created for me because of the distance I must travel with my luggage in Ground Transportation Center. It is obvious that you've never used AirRide or Michigan Flyer because if you ever observed some of the difficulties you've created you would not be advancing a dual stop system but rather making curbside dropoff and pickup the norm for all passengers. A few questions have come to mind: 1. If I'm on a bus with a disabled passenger, will I be able to disembark when the bus drops off that person at curbside? 2. What types of "proof" will be required of disabled passengers to get curbside service. 3. What happens if I have a disability that isn't "observable" such as a heart condition? 4. Are any provisions made for people with temporary disabilities (I recently had a hip replacement) and would have needed easier access although I wasn't "disabled". As I hope you can see, I'm opposed to service as it currently exists and feel that the segregated, dual system you propose is to put it simply, a crock. Steve Nason, Ann Arbor, MI Subject: Disability drop off From: Mary Miner <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:35 pm To: [email protected] It is my belief that all of us need to be dropped off at one location. Otherwise each of us could claim disability and be dropped off at the more convenient location. Subject: Michigan Flyer transportation pick ups and drop offs. From: Barbara Brown Zikmund <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:34 pm To: [email protected] I am a regular customer of Michigan Flyer. It is a superb transportation company. Please don’t ruin it.


I write to object to new rules that are being proposed for pick ups and drop offs at the McNamara terminal. I am a woman in her seventies. I know that it would be very convenient if I could get on or off the bus nearer to the escalator and elevators that take me to baggage and ticketing. However, what you are proposing is not attractive. My understanding is that persons with disabilities (e.g someone like me who cannot walk a long distance with luggage) deserves service without discrimination. It is discriminatory for me to have to “confess” my limitations or be considered an exception to ride the bus. I do not want to be singled out. Why is it impossible to provide a convenient drop off and up load location for all bus riders.? As I have waited for the bus over the past year +, I have watched very small numbers of people board car rental buses, parking shuttles etc. that are much closer to the terminal. Yet Michigan Flyer buses carry twice as many people as those other buses and shuttles. I do not understand why Michigan Flyer riders have to walk farther than every other transportation customer? Usually the customers who use something the most are treated better. There is something wrong with this picture. The Airport exists to serve all the public, therefore I would argue that the larger Michigan Flyer buses are more entitled to easy on and off loading. They transport more customers than small bus and shuttle companies. Usage should determine the convenience of pick ups and drop offs. I have used Michigan Flyer over twenty times in the past two years. Please find a realistic way to make traveling to and from Metro Airport more convenient for everyone. Thank you. Sincerely, Barbara Brown Zikmund 324 Woodland Drive Chelsea, Michigan 48118 734.593.7020 home 202.650.8559 cell [email protected] Subject: Stop harrassing the MI Flyer and its passengers From: Chris Reimann <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:34 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Please return to reason and allow the MI Flyer to return to its most convenient and sensible drop off and pick up location immediately outside the International Arrivals doors at McNamara Terminal. I resent having to walk to the far end of the GTC and stand in an exposed location while waiting for my ride. I hope the state attorney general's office and the US Department of Justice take action as necessary to correct this situation, and that they will not have to because the WCAA will come to its senses and do the right thing for those of us who keep the airport in business.



Sincerely, Chris Reimann 414 Oxford Road East Lansing, MI 48823 Subject: Michigan Flyer From: "Lyn Hood" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:33 pm To: [email protected] Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Good Evening, Mr. McGowan, I am writing to express my concern about further inconvenient moves of the Michigan Flyer bus stop at DTW. I find MI Flyer a convenient way to get to and from DTW and have used this service many times in the past. My husband has mobility issues so moving the stop away from the door has forced us not only to stop using this service but to switch to more handicap conscious venues when we travel for leisure or business due to the unsafe and inconvenient location of boarding for most transportation to and from the Detroit airport given my husband’s disabilities. Not only is the location inconvenient it is very difficult to find and DTW has chosen to provide little in the way of signage, which caused me to miss my ride, the last of the evening, and basically have to hitchhike home the last time I traveled from DTW. In other words, if the motivation for moving the stop is to encourage people to drive and park at the airport it is having the opposite effect in my circumstances. Please reconsider first the needs of your customers, especially those with disabilities, and service them rather than continue whatever the dispute your facility has with Michigan Flyer that lead to this very harmful policy. Thank you for your time reading this email and attention to my opinions and concerns. Roselyn Hood Subject: Michigan Flyer access From: "Betty Sinicropi" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:32 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> It is with great interest that I read the articles/news about the Michigan Flyer changes. I would urge all people involved to help to make pick ups and drop offs as easy as possible for ALL passengers. Any kind of travel is stresssful for all kinds of travelers, not just the disabled.


I would ask all of the decision makers: Please look at this situation as if you or your close relatives were getting to the airport via Michigan Flyer. How easy/hard would you desire it be for your own relatives? Or for yourself? I believe that all people traveling to/from the Mid-Michigan area would benefit from the easiest, safest, closest drop off and pick up area possible. Thanks and please look for a resolution that benefits all people, and fairly. ~Betty Sinicropi Lansing,MI Subject: DTW bus drop off pick up locations From: Ronald Lenz <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:32 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt, I am very disturbed by the manner in which you are conducting the public's business. I have seen no rational explanation for why Michigan Flyer has been forced to use less than optimum drop off and pick up locations - rules that were put in place over a year ago. The additional changes just recently announced that provide for 2 locations - continues to penalize the general public. Will you make detailed, rational, and public statements that demonstrate how your former and current actions are in the best interest of the public? Thank you for considering my input. Ronald Lenz Subject: Disappointment over Detroit Metro's position on drop-offs from Michigan flyer to terminals From: Gretchen Smith <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:27 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> To those listed: The airport must not be making enough money on parking. Many individuals, including me, have used Michigan Flyer as a convenience for easy drop-off and access to the two terminals. Their schedule is posted in advance so passengers can allow enough time to check-in, go through airport security, and


reach our gate well before plane departure. Two years ago, I was just recovering from femur surgery. Luckily my drop off was not at the international terminal. Drop-off was close to the terminal entrance. Had these proposed rules been in effect, I would have had to plan two extra hours plus the two-hour suggested airport arrival to make my flight. It's a violation, in my opinion, of the Americans with Disabilities Act to have them declare a disability in order to be dropped off close to the terminal entrance. Certainly, I want those with disabilities to have the time they need to disembark and make their flight. But making Michigan Flyer make extra drop-offs for those with disabilities and those not cuts into the time needed to allow to make one's flight. It worked just fine the airport dealt with Michigan Flyer before all these crazy regulations. No one complained about allowing those with disabilities to get off first, and we all made our flights, I suspect. If Metro Airport is trying to make it even more difficult for Michigan Flyer to serve its customers, why not just come out and say you don't want Michigan Flyer as a passenger vendor? It seems like the airport is playing favorites and this has nothing to do with safety. This is why you see many passengers opting to fly out of Flint or Grand Rapids - because Metro Airport imposes more and more regulations that create hassles for the very customers they supposedly want to serve! Gretchen Smith 517-896-4091 Subject: New Regulations Affecting Michigan Flyer Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Merritt Sargent <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:26 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I object to the proposed segregated service for People with Disabilities. It flies in the face of the intent of the ADA. The old location (18 months ago) still makes more sense for all customers than the current location or the proposed changes. Please, think this through. Merritt Sargent [email protected] Subject: New stops for Michigan Flyer at Metro Airport seem unreasonable From: Donna Estabrook <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:20 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan - As a frequent rider on Michigan Flyer to Metro Airport, I do not understand why 2 stops at each terminal are necessary. If you are making an accessible stop for people with disabilities why can't everybody use that stop? It seems like a waste of time for the bus to have to make 2 stops and extra hassle for those with disabilities to have to make these extra arrangements. What happens if a



person's flight is late and they have to take a later bus? When are they going to make the arrangements for the bus to stop at the disabilities stop? The ADA certainly does not require a separate stop for those with disabilities - just have everyone use the same accessible stop. Donna Estabrook Ann Arbor, MI Subject: MI Flyer From: Carole Gibbs <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:19 pm To: <[email protected]> Cc: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan: I am writing to voice my support for moving the Michigan Flyer Drop Off at McNamara Terminal back to its original location at the International Arrivals curb of DTW’s McNamara Terminal for all passengers. Consistent with representatives of the Michigan Flyer, I believe that separating the drop off point for disabled vs. abled passengers would: Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. Potentially double the number of stops we make at the airport, causing unwarranted delays in our schedule Overall, I am concerned with WCAA’s continual efforts to reduce passengers' ability to take advantage of the MI Flyer service, which is incredibly important to East Lansing residents flying in and out of DTW. The current drop off point is inconvenient and provides no protection from Michigan’s cold weather. Given that there were no safety incidents in the time period that the Michigan Flyer dropped passengers off at the International arrivals curb, I see no reason to inconvenience passengers. Sincerely, Carole Gibbs


Subject: Michigan Flyer and ADA From: Barbara Cherem <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:17 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan, The way in which Michigan Flyer had scheduled traveler drops previously was working well. Why did you complicate issues by selecting a much further away spot for drop-off passengers? I'm sure you have some reason(s), but I would encourage you to return to the previous arrangement and solve whatever problems this presented in some other manner. The "separate but equal" doctrine was overturned in 1954 by Brown vs. Topeka. There is never "separate and equal'; separation always ends up as unequal. This is why the IDEA and ADA so stress inclusive practices for the disabled. To have only the visibly disabled use the separate stops that are closer as a result of your more recent stop changes means that the general public's stops are at the far ends and not climate protected; this is really inappropriately difficult, discriminatory and un-necessary. I also think perhaps illegal per the ADA, or at the least ---unethical. Differential treatment always has its downside, not just in feelings, but also in that less visible disabilities are not apparent, and it ends up being both embarrassing and discriminatory. Please restore what was working well for all previously. Whatever problem was solved by the move to the further spots, needs to be solved in some other manner. Flying today is so arduous, that anything that makes it more difficult is really a tremendous burden to everyone, most especially the disabled, those who are obviously disabled, and those who are less obviously so. I'd discourage you from undertaking such practices. Public transport has been something that has been sought out for helping many peoples quite a lot, as well as encouragement for those environmentally conscious. Please support these societal needs and the people who want to encourage same. Michigan Flyer is such an important vehicle for all of the above, help them do their jobs in serving Michigan's travelers of all stripes. Thanks for your consideration. Best regards, Barbara Cherem, PhD Professor of Special Education UM-Flint Subject: Fwd: Mich flyer From: Rebecca Wolfe <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:16 pm To: [email protected] Begin forwarded message:


> From: Rebecca Wolfe <[email protected]> > Date: March 3, 2016 at 8:16:03 PM EST > To: [email protected] > Subject: Mich flyer > > I am saddened to hear that the Michigan Flyer will no longer be easy to access. The last time I went to the distant location I feel uncomfortable as a woman alone. I would not want my daughter getting the Michigan Flyer in this remote dark location. I will have to reconsider my use of the Detroit airport if you insist that the Michigan Flyer be accessible only by this remote location. > > Sincerely > Rebecca Wolfe Subject: Michigan Flyer drop off and pick up point From: Kelly-Sells <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:15 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I believe the WCA's recent change in the Michigan Flyer drop off and pick up points at the Wayne County Airport terminals goes against the ADA and is inconvenient for passengers. A single point per terminal, as was true 18 months ago, is far better for all. Daniel Sell 1408 Beechwood Dr Ann Arbor 48103 Subject: new plans to "expand" choices for travelers with disabilities From: Aaron Zeller <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:14 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr McGowan, The plan to “expand” choices for people with disabilities by requiring Michigan Flyer to make an additional stop at each terminal is ridiculous. What are you trying to prove? Just go back to the way it was 18 months ago and drop everyone off at the same location. This is better and safer for people with disabilities and also for people without disabilities. What you’re doing is simply a transparent power trip. Sincerely, Aaron Zeller Ann Arbor, MI


Subject: Fwd: Michigan flyer drop off regulations From: John and Sharon <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:13 pm To: [email protected] Begin forwarded message: > From: John and Sharon <[email protected]> > Date: March 3, 2016 at 7:52:17 PM EST > To: [email protected] > Subject: Michigan flyer drop off regulations > > Mr. McGowan, > > I am writing in regards to the new Michigan Flyer drop off regulations, changing again as last year. I don't understand why there was a change in the first place, for the original drop off areas worked well for everyone and were safe these past years. Now I understand there is going to be another change that sounds even more complicated and unnecessary. > > Please consider how well things were for all people over the years and go back to the way it was. I believe it will be better for everyone. Why change what was working? It doesn't make sense. I think it would be beneficial if you would listen to the people at The Michigan Flyer, as they know their passengers and how the route details work. I hope you will consider the matter and go back to the original drop off areas. Thank you. > > Sharon Graham Subject: Michigan Flyer service at McNamara Terminal From: Rebecca Zurier <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:13 pm To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I was disappointed about plans to change the pickups for the Michigan Flyer bus at the McNamara Terminal. This service is an unmitigated good for passengers as well as for the environment. Why mess with a successful system and make it more complicated by instituting two separate stops, for two classes of passengers (disabled and able-bodied), at the terminal? Why force customers to wait outside, especially during Michigan's bad weather? Why make a longer hike, with luggage, strollers, sleepy children, etc., for passengers who have just disembarked?


The service was much easier to use when buses came to the International Arrivals curb and passengers could wait for the bus inside. Please reconsider the plan announced in the new ground transportation regulations and go back to best serving the passengers. Yours sincerely, Rebecca Zurier Subject: discriminatory and short sighted practices against Michigan Flyer From: "Limb, Peter" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:05 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Many of us in Mid-Michigan use Michigan Flyer: it is convenient, helps tourism and local business, and eases gridlock. You have downgraded facilities at DTW. You should now return to the more convenient and accessible location it had 18 months ago and stop punishing local business, travelers, and the disabled. I have re-directed at least of my 7 flights via Chicago instead of Detroit due to your discriminatory and short sighted practices against Michigan Flyer that make my trips out of that airport more cumbersome. It is a shame and a laughing stock that Michigan can no longer boast top rate management of its primary airport, and that the services feeding into it are so badly provided for by the current manager. I hope the Governor will move to encourage you to restore sane and equitable practices. Peter Limb Subject: New regulations affecting MI Flyer service From: iPad <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:04 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The Michigan Flyer provides a service to people in the mid-Michigan area who prefer to use the Detroit Airport. It is a fast, safe, reliable, comfortable way to get back and forth to the Detroit Airport. About 18 months ago the airport made it more difficult to use because of the change in location of the drop off and pick up points.


Now, the airport wants the Michigan Flyer to make 2 pick up stops at the airport. One for passenger with disabilities, and one for "normal" people. If I had a disability, I would not want to have to declare that I had such a disability. Seems like this is a privacy issue. Why not just have one pick up point - the more convenient one (the proposed one for people with disabilities). The March 14 enforcement date doesn't seem like it gives enough time to make any necessary changes. It would take me until March 14 to read the whole document!!! It just seems like the airport is trying to make it very difficult for the Michigan Flyer to provide this great service. Audrey Putman Lansing MI Subject: New Michigan Flyer regulations From: Connie Close <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:02 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] To whom it may concern; We are regular, able bodied, senior citizens (82 and 76) Michigan flyer customers from East Lansing, Mich. to DTW and are writing to express our disgust at the new regulations that require disabled passengers to board and disembark from a better site than the rest of the customers at DTW transportation center. If the bus has to make a closer stop for the disabled, why is it not possible for the rest of us to board and disembark here also. This appears to be segregated and discriminatory services for the rest of the passengers, plus the further stop is subject to inclement weather conditions. While the airlines allow their disabled passengers to board and disembark early from the aircraft, they do not move the carrier to a different location for the rest of the passengers! I expect your reply to my comments at the above email address, and sincerely hope you will see the ridiculous and unreasonable nature of your argument. James and Constance R. Close - East Lansing, Michigan Subject: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: John Tran <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 8:01 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt,


As a graduate student at Michigan State University who uses the Michigan Flyer regularly to attend conferences and make visits back home in California, I urge you to help us improve the services with the Michigan Flyer. Please advocate for moving the pickup and dropoff location to the International Arrivals curb. Sincerely, John Tran Subject: New Regulation affecting regularly scheduled bus transport From: Carol Cukier <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:59 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr McGowan, The new regulation requiring multiple sites and pickups for regular and handicapper passengers at the terminal does not seem to promote the safety of passengers. Pulling in at the curb and pulling out increases the number of times the bus must enter into traffic, increasing the risk of collisions. The new regulation does not align with the authorized purposes for the rules that are stated in the statutes. It would be safer for all passengers to be picked up at a single location at the terminal. Please reconsider these new rules. Carol J. Cukier John Tran Graduate Student Dr. Curtis Wilkerson Lab Department of Plant Biology Michigan State University (MSU), East Lansing Subject: Re: Drop off and pick up for Michigan Flyer From: Phyllis Valentine <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:53 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] You have not answered my question: > Now I learn of proposed new changes, which will make things even worse. There is absolutely no reason for this. I am a senior...does that mean that I must label myself disabled in order to be dropped off and picked up at a reasonable place?


> > Must I now label myself 'Disabled' in order to have a reasonable place to be dropped off and picked up???? > On Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 7:31 PM, Matt McGowan <[email protected]> wrote:

March 3, 2016 Dear Valued Traveler, I appreciate your previous interest in ground transportation operations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and would like to share some upcoming improvements our team is making to enhance service and ensure we are fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers. That service commitment helps define who we are as an organization, is fundamental to what we believe and has helped our airport achieve broad success and customer recognition as one of the finest and preferred large air transportation facilities in the world. Based on collaboration, feedback and recommendations from our federal partners, ground transportation operators and industry experts within the disability community, we are adding new ground transportation pick-up and drop-off accommodation options to better serve travelers with disabilities, regardless of which ground transportation service or provider, they choose. This new, additional level of service will not inconvenience other customers because the ground transportation providers will always go to their familiar, assigned positions in the Ground Transportation Center (GTC). Any customer with a disability can choose to continue to use the current accessible ground transportation locations or take advantage of these new, closer pick-up and drop-off areas. For Ground Transportation at the McNamara Terminal: For Travelers Departing from the Airport on a Flight: Ground transportation operators dropping-off passengers will proceed to their normal positions in the Ground Transportation Center at the McNamara Terminal. Anyone who wishes to take advantage of the additional service option can simply stay on the vehicle and it will swing around to the terminal departures curb, closer to airline check-in and passenger screening. For Travelers Arriving at the Airport on a Flight: Similarly, ground transportation operators picking-up arriving travelers will proceed to their normal positions in the McNamara Terminal Ground Transportation Center. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the additional arrival service option can arrange for pick-up with their ground transportation provider just outside of Door 402 of the GTC, which is just feet from the enclosed area. For Ground Transportation at the North Terminal: At the North Terminal Ground Transportation Center, Bay Five, closest to the enclosed area of the GTC, will be reserved for departing and arriving customers choosing the new, additional service option. As always, we remain committed to balancing the unique and diverse needs of all our customers, while ensuring safe and efficient operations in our busy, dynamic and critically-important transportation gateway. We appreciate your help and support in this and all areas. For additional information regarding this announcement, ground transportation or airport


accessibility in general, please visit our website atwww.metroairport.com and feel free to share with others who may be interested. If you have any specific questions, comments or concerns, please contact me directly. Very truly yours, Thomas Naughton CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority Detroit Metropolitan Airport/Willow Run Airport

On Mar 3, 2016, at 7:18 PM, Phyllis Valentine <[email protected]> wrote: > I have been very pleased with the airport transportation service provided by Michigan Flyer...it is convenient, timely, and very cost effective. It has been wonderful to leave the driving to someone else and travel safely, with no need to park. > > What has been less pleasant are the changes that have happened to the airport drop off and pick up spots. They require me to walk a considerable distance, often in inclement weather. When the first change occurred, I had difficulty even finding the pick up spot. > > Now I learn of proposed new changes, which will make things even worse. There is absolutely no reason for this. I am a senior...does that mean that I must label myself disabled in order to be dropped off and picked up at a reasonable place? > > Please be sensible and avoid this harassment of the passengers of this wonderful service. > > Phyllis Valentine > 1010 Arborview Blvd. > Ann Arbor, MI 48103 > 734 769-2889 > [email protected] Subject: Re: Michigan Flyer From: Doug Motley [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:52 pm To: Matt McGowan <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McNaughton and Mr. McGowan: I appreciate the auto-reply email but I would encourage you to ride the Michigan Flyer yourselves and then consider if the previous arrangement of the pickup/dropoff location would not be immeasurably more convenient? For all riders but especially for those with greater need for accessibility). Also, consider if you would prefer to have your loved ones picked up in the current location or the previous? When my aged father travels, what would be best for him? No question which is better for the travelers - I hope you reconsider how best to serve them (us). Thanks, Doug




Doug Motley East Lansing, MI c 517-488-8090 > On Mar 3, 2016, at 7:37 PM, Matt McGowan <[email protected]> wrote: >

> March 3, 2016 >> > Dear Valued Traveler, > > I appreciate your previous interest in ground transportation operations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), and would like to share some upcoming improvements our team is making to enhance service and ensure we are fostering a welcoming environment for all our customers. …

> > > On Mar 3, 2016, at 7:37 PM, Doug Motley <[email protected]> wrote: > >> Mr. McGowan: Good evening. I apologize for not having written before, there is so much to do in a day that I often put off things like this correspondence even when I should not. >> >> First, let me say that I am a very frequent traveler, flying Delta out of the McNamara terminal almost weekly and parking in the adjacent parking structure most of the time. I think McNamara is one of the greatest terminals in the U.S., if not the world, and I really enjoy the atmosphere and the many changes, shops, and restaurants (PF Changs was a great idea!). >> >> There are times when, for one reason or another, my family cannot go without my car for several days or longer and in those instances it is common for me to take the Michigan Flyer to and/or from the airport (I live in East Lansing). It’s not as convenient as driving but it is a great option, comfortable, with wifi, etc. I have never understood why the pickup/dropoff location was moved from outside the International Arrivals where it was easy, safe, and comfortable to find. >> >> I also have several college aged children who have taken the Flyer and it has been a great option for them as well. >> >> Why was the Michigan Flyer relocated? >> >> The new location is much less convenient, less comfortable, and it certainly seems less safe. I am reluctant to use it now and I am reluctant to have my family use it either. >> >> I would urge you and others at the airport to make whatever accommodations or changes may be necessary to relocate the pickup/dropoff location back to its previous location. >> >> Please let me know if you have any questions or if I may answer any questions. I’m happy to meet you at the McNamara - I’ll be there soon! >> >> Thanks again for running a great airport - and please fix the Michigan Flyer meeting location, it definitely does not align with your typically excellent other facilities and conveniences.


>> >> Best regards, Doug >> >> Doug Motley >> East Lansing, Mi >> c 517-488-8090 Subject: About moving the Michigan flyer stop at DTW airport From: Lorena Valmori <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:51 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Sirs, I have been taking the Michigan flyer airbus more than 6 times a year for the past 4 years, as I am an international Phd student at MSU who often flies home and to conferences. I was very disappointed when the stop at the airport was moved to a much further and more uncomfotable location. This has been an inconvenience, for me and at the beginning I missed my booked ride and had to take the next one because i could not find the new stop, and nodody could help me. I read about the possibility of an exta stop for people with diabilities, and I think this is not going to solve any problem. It would create confusion for people that would not know where to wait for the bus (especially people who do not take it often) and it also makes the previous decision to move the stop further down for safety reason very weird. Are we, the customes "without disabilities", waiting for the bus in a safer or less safe place? This make no sense. I don't understand why the stop had to be moved in the first place. I'm writing this email to support Michigan flyer and restore the stop where it was before for eveybody. Best regards, Lorena Valmori Subject: Simple Human Dignity... From: Paul Curtis <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:49 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]


Violate the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens. Force passengers with disabilities to declare their disabilities to us in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. Shift to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer the WCAA’s own responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities. WCAA argues that offering segregated stops to people with disabilities is like allowing passengers who need special assistance to board an aircraft early. But in our view, it’s more like an arriving airplane dropping off only people with disabilities at one gate, then moving to another gate to let everyone else disembark. Mr. Matt McGowan, I received this disturbing letter and have taken my time to address your organization's discrimination policy. It is hard to imagine in this day and age you are choosing to treat individuals with disabilities as second class citizens. Regretful I had to take a stand for simple human decency, Paul Curtis Subject: Petition for restoring Michigan Flyer From: Victor Huls <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:48 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear all, I am a student at the University of Michigan and have gratefully used the services of the Michigan flyer for transporting myself to and from the Detroit Airport. Perhaps the best aspect is (or was) the convenience of the bus's pick up location. From what I have read about the new regulations and location, I completely disagree with the updates and find it nonsensical to separate those passengers with disabilities from all others, and to put such a popular form of transportation in a practically inaccessible location. I hope that things will either be restored or come to a better solution. Sincerely, Victor Minke Huls UM Cello and Conducting Master's candidate, 2017


Music Director - Ann Arbor Camerata Subject: RE: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:46 pm To: [email protected] Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Greetings of the day. Please - read the below concerns and think about what it's like to get on a bus to go to an airport or from an airport - there is a lot of anxiety for many passengers, whether physically challenged or not. I have used Michigan Flyer for many years, and this last time, arriving from Europe, I was physically impaired - I had torn my Achilles' tendon in Edinburgh and had walked on it for four weeks by the time I got Stateside. Believe me - I would not have wanted to walk any farther with my backpack and rolling suitcase than I had to that evening after the trans-Atlantic flight with the change in Dulles in D.C. I was very tired and in pain. The drivers have always been so helpful to any and all passengers, and I have appreciated that. I can think of no good reason for changing the location of picking up and dropping off passengers for the two terminals at Detroit Metro Airport, and most certainly not letting off the "disabled passengers" at a convenient location and the "able passengers" at a dangerous and inconvenient location - that can not make sense to any lawmaker. Please think about your message to the lucky passengers who get to use the Michigan Flyer. It has been a terrific service for years - please keep it that way. Sincerely, H. Irene Blanchard East Lansing, MI Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Bonnie Finfer <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:45 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]


The DTW airport needs to leave the transportation pick up location for Michigan Flyer alone. You are digging yourselves into a legal quagmire every time you try to supposedly redeem yourself. Nobody is being fooled by your current decisions (very sneaky at that). No matter what you say or how you try to spin this it is against Federal Law under ADA to "force" a person to self-disclose themselves as disabled in order to be provided services. It goes against every fiber of the law. By creating a segregated pick up locations and two different stops you are taking people back to a time when it was okay to discriminate based on disability. Your legal team has failed you again. It is that much of a hindrance to keep the current Michigan Flyer pick up location where "Everyone" is safe and protected by the harsh elements of Michigan weather? This is not a fight you should enter. The law is not on your side. Subject: Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:44 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr McGowan I do not understand the decisions that DTW continues to make in airport transportation services. I used to fly in/out of Detroit all the time. It used to be such a hassle attempting to get a ride, rent a car, etc. Along came Michigan flyer. It made it so much easier on mine and other's schedules (getting a ride), on my budget (not having to rent a car when I could not get a ride) and in my own small way, I was making an environmental impact by at least one less vehicle on the road when I rode with Michigan Flyer. I always feel safe and am on schedule. It was great when I was dropped off at the original location. I don't have true disabilities but my multi joint arthritis makes managing luggage and traversing distance a bit uncomfortable. As I said above, I used to use DTW all the time but now I don't. I have since chosen other airports over DTW because of the changes you have made to Michigan Flyer's locations, rules/regulations. It is just easier for me to navigate other airports. Causing DTW and Michigan Flyer to lose business. I just do not see why DTW would not encourage a service that is bringing people into the airport. It appears you are doing everything you can to frustrate, rather than support. Please just allow Michigan Flyer to return to dropping off at the original location where it all started. Subject: WCAA attack on Michigan Flyer From: Andrea Poli <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:43 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]


Mr. McGowan, For years the airport has become more difficult for me to use. The only exception to this trend happened when I started using the Michigan Flyer a couple of years ago. But the WCAA has insisted on harassing the Michigan Flyer, moving them further from the terminal, and now instituting a crazy two-step drop-off that violates both the spirit and the letter of the ADA. The Michigan Flyer is a Michigan company and they are treated worse than out-of-state vendors. What do you have against them? The WCAA has a history of bribery and influence peddling and these actions has the same stinky feel as the former ones. Something has to be done! Leave the Michigan Flyer alone. -Andrea Poli Ann Arbor, MI Subject: Inclusive Society From: Martha Bloomfield <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:43 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Matt McGowan, I just wanted to share with you that I oppose segregating bus stops at separate ends of the terminal for the disabled. I support the disability community. We are all humans and must be an inclusive society. I hope that the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) will immediately honor all people honorably and respectfully. Thank you. Martha Bloomfield Subject: Michigan flyer From: Linda <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:40 pm To: [email protected]


Cc: [email protected] Please reconsider the two drop offs for Michigan flyer passengers. My husband and I along with my sister are all in our 70's, and while not disabled as such, we are often in a position where the further drop off spot poses a hardship. 18 months ago, the drop off location was both safe and convenient for all passengers-/ including those with disabilities. Thank you! Subject: Fwd: Michigan Flyer From: Keith Thomas <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:37 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected] The following was sent to the WCAA. I forgot to CC on the original. ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Keith Thomas <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 7:36 PM Subject: Michigan Flyer To: [email protected] Mr. McGowan, Please reinstate the original Michigan Flyer stop. It's much less hassle for us passengers, and we don't understand why it's been moved. The proposed two-stop plan seems unnecessary, if not illegal under the ADA, and this whole thing could be avoided by simply reverting back to the way things were before the stop was moved. Thanks, Keith Thomas Michigan Flyer Customer Subject: Michigan Flyer From: Forammo <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:36 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Mr. McGowan, I am almost 73 years old, but not physically disabled. It was a very good location for Michigan Flyer buses to load and unload till about a year and a half ago. How it is long walk with baggage. There is no cover to protect passengers from rain and snow. I feel it is discriminatory your new regulation for some to board in a safe and convent location and other to a very bad location. Have you and your fellow board members walked with luggage to the current location?


I respectively request you make changes for us passengers from the Lansing and Ann Arbor areas. I now investigate flying out of either Grand Rapids or Flint instead of DTW because of your treatment of Michigan Flyer. It hurts both the bus company and DTW. You kind consideration of this matter is requested. George G. Kass Okemos, MI Subject: mid Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:36 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], susan declercq <[email protected]>, [email protected] Hello Mr. McGowan, I am writing to express my concern regarding the possible changes to the Mid Michigan Flyer service. I am a frequent user of the Flyer and a physician. I live in the Lansing area. I value the safety and convenience of the Flyer. It allows me to travel without the support of another person to drive me to Metro Airport. It conserves energy as well as my time. It eliminates the cost and the worry of damage to my vehicle when left in airport parking. I feel safer when I don't have to wander through a parking structure, trying to remember where my car is. I don't have to worry about driving alone back to my home. To summarize: I treasure my Michigan Flyer! My concern with the suggested changes to Flyer service are more related to others than to myself. I am currently lucky enough to be physically well. Others are not so lucky and struggle with accessibility. Their ability to travel is limited due to a variety of challenges. These challenges might be purely physical. It is hard to wander through the airport looking for a bus stop. There are obstacles such as moving walkways, escalators, obscure signage, curbs, and weather, just to name a few. There are also less concrete obstacles; consider the challenges to the visually impaired who are forced to ask assistance and request "special pick up" at a different location. This singles out those Flyer patrons and obligates them to identify themselves as "disabled" and to request special treatment. The elderly and otherwise infirm cannot tolerate the long walk and yet may not choose to be identified as needy by asking for assistance. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires integrated services and the Flyer had provided these in a safe and efficient manor. Please allow the Flyer and other ground transportation carriers to drop off in a safe and easily accessible location. Stop changing the location and start encouraging your passengers to use alternative transportation to get the airport safely! Allow disabled and differently abled passengers to have the same privileges as I enjoy. Thank you, Candace Metcalf, DO


Subject: Michigan Flyer From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:34 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I'm so very disappointed hearing and seeing another example of individuals making such poor decisions. Just cancel the Michigan Flyer Service. No bus service bringing customers would do away with this problem. There are other airports that would love to provide better service to more customers. Subject: Michigan Flyer stops From: Laura Scott <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:33 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr McGowan, I would like to add my support to a single stop for disabled and not disabled individuals that is easily accessible to the terminal. The proposed solution sets up a situation where people who are running behind, or just want to get out sooner, will get out at the terminal and those who are staying with the spirit of the decision will be left on the bus. I have seen on airplanes what happens when the flight is late and people are asked to wait in their seats for people who have connections to get off. It almost never works to the favor of the people running behind or to those that chose to wait. Public transport is essential and should be as comfortable and easy as non-public transport. You've got a great set up for taxis and should have the same for the Flyer. Please move the stop for all back closer to the terminal. Sincerely, Laura Scott Subject: Michigan Flyer supports our students From: Mary Gonzales <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:32 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan


As a proud Michigan State mother, I was proud when our son could safely study abroad with the help of Michigan Flyer safely dropping him off and bringing him home from the airport. This trusted institution opens a world to our students studying abroad and should be supported in knowing what is in the best for our kids and also for disabled adults such as my sister with cerebral palsy who flies in to visit our family. Michigan Flyer is a company I trust my family with. For DTW WCAA to cause strife and delays in connecting our family by making Michigan Flyer's job harder and unmanageable with pushing more stops and uncomfortable stops for our children is a breach in customer service and our trust in the airport's service ability. I hope you can put your trust in Michigan Flyers honest recommendations and to recognize that their service to bring passengers to your airport gives you more business, not less. Sincerely, Mary Gonzales Okemos Subject: Michigan Flyer add stops for seniors/disabled From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:31 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Governor McGowan; I am a widowed senior citizen with bad knees and lower back problems. I have been taking the Michigan Flyer to Lansing, Michigan for many years so as not to inconvenience my children and cause them to miss work. I found the bus to be conveniently located until my last visit in January,2016. I had a very difficult time getting to the new stop. I had to stop several times and rest. It is a long way from Delta and United airlines. I always enjoyed my ride on the clean and comfortable buses with wonderful drivers. I feel more stops should be added to help us seniors and those with disabilities of any kind. I do hope you will take this into consideration and add the needed stops. I have several more trips I have to make by June. I know the senior citizens and disabled will be appreciative. Sincerely, Gladys A. Bond [email protected] Subject: Michigan Flyer dropoff



From: Jill Ayers <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:30 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGowan, I recently learned of the new drop off area at the airport for Michigan Flyer. I'm really sorry to hear about this. Although I'm not disabled, I do walk slowly (and often painfully). My husband is 82 but we still enjoy traveling. However, as we get older, every step counts and getting through an airport is challenging at best. We love using the Michigan Flyer as we don't like driving in the traffic around the airport. Please reconsider having two drop off spots and let us all get off at the current place. It's very convenient. Thank you for your consideration. Jill Westmoreland-Ayers Williamston, MI Subject: New change to dropping off point for buses From: Everyl Yankee <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:30 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear sir: Please reconsider the proposed regulation to set up TWO stops for bus passengers. A separate drop off: - discriminates - slows down everyone's trip - gives a wrong image to the public about your commitment to accessibility I like everyone have NO issue with those who need additional time should board first. The latest current situation (as opposed to the original configuration 18 months ago) is lousy enough (long hike, inconvenient) without adding insult to injury with a separate gate. Thank you, Everyl Yankee Passenger Subject: Matt: Stop jerking the Michigan FLyer bus chain


From: Cliff Stratton <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:29 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Matt Knock it off. The flyer bus is very valuable asset to SE Michigan and to Metro airport. Support them not hassle them. Lead follow or get out of the way.. --Cliff Stratton Subject: Fw: Detroit Metro Airport Plans to Expand Choices for Travelers with Disabilities From: Rajeev Batra <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:28 pm To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Cc: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]>, "[email protected]" <[email protected]> Hullo, your new proposed policy below seems to make little sense. Apart from forcing disabled people to seek publicly-visible segregated treatment, it doubles the number of stops these buses have to make. Why not just allow EVERYONE to get on and off at these new stops? Why is DTW so opposed to increasing the convenience for all public transport riders -- is it because it might reduce your revenues from the expensive limo services that pay you a fee? Rajeev Batra [email protected] also: [email protected] Subject: New regulations at Detroit Metro Airport From: Carlos Mora <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:26 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] I have learned that the airport authorities propose to make new regulations concerning where public transportation shuttle buses pick up and drop off passengers resulting in a two tiered system, one for passengers with disabilities and the other for all other passengers. I find your proposed measures discriminatory. Please, reconsider and help us all avoid the added hassle of your ill-conceived plan. Carlos Mora, PhD



Subject: Michigan Flyer stops From: "HANNAN, NANCY" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:24 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Dear Mr. McGown, I don't understand why you are making it so difficult for people who use the Michigan Flyer bus service. Is it because you want more people to park at the airport? I think the Supreme Court made it clear that separate but equal is not equal. Why would there need to be two drop off points, one for disabled passengers and one for non-disabled? It makes no sense. If the bus is already stopping at a close location, why not let everyone off? Do all of the other bus services do this? A couple of years ago the drop off spots were convenient and safe. Why was Michigan Flyer selected to be the one that has to drop off the farthest from the terminal? Nancy Hannan Subject: WHY COMPLICATE THINGS???? Let the Michigan Flyer do what they do best -- which is continue to be the best! From: Amy Sewell <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:24 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] The Michigan Flyer is one of the most efficient transportation resources I've ever experienced. It is spot on in every category of service and professionalism (and safety!!!!) for all my family's and friend's needs when traveling to and from New York City to Ann Arbor and back. (By the way, I'm a native Michigander.) What always amazes me is when people make something that is so efficient and excellent cease to be so due to some kind of new process that just inconveniences everyone. Why two stops at each terminal? Why not just let the amazingly professional Michigan Flyer do what they do best and keep it easy for all? Additionally, make it inclusive for those with disabilities. All people at one stop help each other and this is better overall for a sense of compassion and community. You can call me if you'd like to discuss this further -- 917-690-3975. Sincerely, Amy Sewell Writer/Director/Producer U-M Alum 1985


Married to a U-M Alum 1985 Daughter a Wolverine, Class of 2019 Tons of friends and family in Detroit/Michigan Subject: Don't Use Sophist Arguments or Pretend an Inconvenience is a Value Added From: Kate McCrindle <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:22 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Greetings. It has come to my attention that for reasons that are unclear, or at least to me, irrational, you have deemed to move the Michigan Flyer drop off a good deal further away. That in itself is bad enough. But to then issue your completely disingenuous press release patting yourself on the back for segregating people with disabilities, and only after a legal threat, well, let's just say you give a new depth of meaning to spin. Smarten up. We didn't all just fall off the turnip truck. I think you have more power than you ought to, given a lack of stewardship for public policy and the ADA, which BTW, IS THE LAW. The state should intervene and instruct you how to conduct yourself as a quasi-public entity. Clearly, you've lost the right and the judgement to enact public transportation policy. I agree wholeheartedly with the points made by Michigan Flyer, even though I don't have a dog in this race: (per below points.) Sincerely, Kate McCrindle Grand Rapids, MI Subject: proposed new ground transportation regulations at WCAA From: "McCullagh, Marjorie" <[email protected]> Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:18 pm To: "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]> Cc: "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "'[email protected]'" <[email protected]>, "McCullagh, Marjorie" <[email protected]> Dear Mr. McGowan,


As a Michigan Flyer-Air Ride rider, I am writing to provide comment on new proposed regulations that may potentially require each Michigan Flyer-AirRide bus to make two stops instead of one at both DTW terminals—one stop for any disabled passengers who ask to be dropped off or picked up closer to the terminal, and a second stop for everyone else at the furthest possible location away from the McNamara Terminal—at the far south end of the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in the parking garage and across the road. This change presents a problem for me and other riders for the following reasons: It violates the spirit of the ADA, which “recognizes that the provision of goods and services in an integrated manner is a fundamental tenet of nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Providing segregated accommodations and services relegates persons with disabilities to the status of second-class citizens.” It forces passengers with disabilities to publicly declare their disabilities in order to take advantage of segregated bus stops closer to DTW’s terminals—potentially perpetuating the discrimination and stigma that the ADA was designed to overcome. It shifts the responsibility to ensure the accessibility of airport facilities from Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) to ground transportation providers like Michigan Flyer--Air Ride. It erodes the quality of service in that it potentially doubles the number of stops at the airport, causing unwarranted schedule delays. The use of Michigan Flyer-Air Ride has many advantages to the WCAA as well as to the citizens of Michigan, as it reduces traffic congestion and pollution, while easing parking problems. Indeed, it could be argued that *priority* of convenience should be given to riders on these grounds, as riders are taking a socially, economically, and environmentally wise decision to avoid use of personal vehicles in favor of public transportation. Providing convenience, safety, and compliance with ADA is in the best interest of all involved. I encourage you to swiftly work with Michigan Flyer-Air Ride to provide safe, convenient, and accessible ground transportation. Marjorie McCullagh 400 N. Ingalls St., Ste. 3182 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 Voice 734.763.3450 Email [email protected] Subject: Detroit Metro new ground transportation regulations- impact on Michigan Flyer customers From: [email protected] Date: Thu, Mar 03, 2016 7:17 pm To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Having used the Michigan Flyer bus service between Detroit Metro Airport and East Lansing on several occasions, I am dismayed by the increasing difficulty of accessing the service. My first experience personally using the Michigan Flyer, four years ago, was delightful. I arrived in Detroit from Italy on Air



France and was able to safely and easily board the Michigan Flyer right outside the terminal. I could watch for the bus from the safe and warm terminal interior and I didn't fear safety for myself or my luggage. More recent travel in the last 18 months has not been so convenient. I luckily am not disabled and am a native English speaker. However, I have seen people who struggle to find the site to board due to physical or language constraints or due to anxiety due to age or not being a frequent traveler. I have tried to assist those travelers as I am able. It is sad to see the confusion and inconvenience some experience. The most recent changes, while ostensibly making it safer and easier for disabled clients, actually makes it more confusing for all passengers. Please re-examine these decisions and return to the safe and convenient pick up right outside the terminal. Thank you for your consideration, Carol A. Siemon Subject: Re: URGENT: New Regulations Affecting Our Service at Detroit Metro Airport From: Deborah Kirby [email protected] Date: Fri, March 04, 2016 9:13 am To: Michigan Flyer <[email protected]> I think the Michigan Flyer should just put everyone off at the "disabled" stop, the WCAA can't, by law question a persons disability; if a person states that they are disabled......that's the end of that conversation, by law they cannot be asked to disclose their disability!! Signed, A Michigan Flyer user and Transit Operator!



Exhibit D

WCAA Press Release


News Release

Media contacts:

Michael Conway 734-942-3558

Detroit Metro Airport plans to expand choices for travelers

with disabilities

--New pick-up and drop-off options to be introduced

DETROIT (March 1, 2016)—Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) will be offering

more options to travelers with disabilities when they are picked up or dropped off at the

airport. By offering these accommodations, the airport intends to make arriving and

departing DTW more convenient, while maintaining safety.

The proposed accommodations would allow travelers with disabilities, who are using any

type of commercial ground transportation, to choose to be picked up or dropped off at

newly designated locations that are closer to terminal entrances. These locations would

simply represent an alternative to the existing locations, and travelers who wish could

continue to use the current, accessible locations in the McNamara and North Terminals’

Ground Transportation Centers (GTC).

“Our team is constantly evaluating opportunities to improve or expand service to our

customers,” said Airport Authority CEO Thomas Naughton. “We expect to offer these

additional accommodations in mid-March after dialogue with regulatory officials,

members of the disability community, and ground transportation operators.”

At the McNamara Terminal, these new accommodations would allow customers with

disabilities to be picked up at Door 402 of the GTC, which opens directly into the

enclosed area of the GTC, and dropped off at the McNamara Terminal Departures Level

curb, just outside of ticketing and passenger screening. Construction to accommodate this

change at the Departures Level curb commenced earlier this year. At the North Terminal,

members of the disability community, if they choose, could be picked up and dropped off

at Bay Five of the North Terminal GTC, which is the closest door to the enclosed area of

the GTC. Ground transportation operators would otherwise continue to use their assigned

positions for pick-ups and drop-offs.

The changes will not be finalized or take effect until mid-March.


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DETROIT METROPOLITAN WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT

L.C. Smith Terminal Mezzanine Detroit, Michigan 48242 ph 734 942 3550 fax 734 942 3793 www.metroairport.com

Detroit Metro Airport has a history of working with organizations that serve customers

with disabilities, such as Leader Dogs for the Blind and Paws with a Cause, and

developed its own On Board with Autism program for families affected by Autism. Also,

DTW was one of the world’s first airports to open an airside service animal relief area

(SARA), located in the McNamara Terminal, for customers traveling with service

animals.

#####

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) welcomed more than 33 million

passengers in 2015 and is one of the world’s leading air transportation hubs. With

service from 13 scheduled passenger airlines, Michigan’s largest airport offers more

than 1,100 flights per day to and from more than 140 non-stop destinations on four

continents. With two award-winning passenger terminals, six jet runways, and an onsite

AAA Four-Diamond Westin Hotel, DTW is among the world’s most efficient, customer

friendly and operationally capable airports in North America. DTW is operated by

Wayne County Airport Authority, which also operates nearby Willow Run Airport – an

important corporate, cargo and general aviation facility. The Airport Authority is

entirely self-sustaining and does not receive tax dollars to support airport operations.

Visit www.metroairport.com for more information.


http://www.metroairport.com/

paul palmer & donna rose, ) - michigan flyer motion for tro.pdfsouthern division paul palmer...

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