Case Timeline

July 25, 2002:  The plaintiffs brought civil action for declaratory and injunctive relief against the MBTA alleging that the MBTA was not complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

2003 – 2004:  Plaintiffs and GBLS attorneys participated in talks and negotiations with the MBTA. 

February 17, 2004:  The Court certified the plaintiffs’ proposed class in the lawsuit.  Because of this certification, the ruling is binding on all persons with mobility and sensory disabilities.

July 2005 – May 2006: Plaintiffs and GBLS attorneys participated in negotiations with Dan Grabauskas, who had recently been appointed general manager of the MBTA.

April 3, 2006: The plaintiffs and the MBTA settled the lawsuit and signed the Settlement Agreement.

June 15, 2006: A fairness hearing was held and the Court approved the Settlement Agreement. 

July 30, 2006: The Settlement Agreement took effect and is active for five years, until both parties agree that the conditions sought by the agreement have been satisfied, or by order of the Court upon the application of one or more of the parties.