The Denton Committee on Persons with Disabilities convened on July 17, 2025, to discuss ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility in the city. A primary focus of the meeting was the removal of barriers in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Committee members highlighted the importance of identifying and addressing these barriers as opportunities arise.

During the meeting, it was reported that several projects aimed at improving accessibility are currently in progress. Notably, the city has applied for $15 million in funding from the Texas Department of Transportation (TexDot) to support initiatives related to pedestrian safety and road safety. This funding will also contribute to the development of trails that connect to schools, enhancing safe routes for students.

The committee emphasized the collaborative approach taken by the transportation services department, which has worked to unify various city departments that previously operated independently. This effort aims to streamline communication and effectively address the challenges faced in barrier removal.

While acknowledging the complexity of the task, committee members noted that no city can eliminate all barriers overnight. They shared that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has shown flexibility regarding budget constraints, encouraging cities to demonstrate their commitment to implementing accessibility improvements, even if progress is gradual.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue applying for implementation grants and to focus on actionable steps toward enhancing accessibility for all residents in Denton.