Final Notice from MAD Lab: Tactile Transit Maps to Support Independent Travel
Time is running out for our offer of free tactile transit station maps for people living or working in the Bay Area. See the details below, and don’t delay placing your order.
Getting around your community should be accessible, understandable, and empowering. This fall, LightHouse’s MAD Lab is continuing to expand access to public transportation through the production and distribution of tactile transit maps designed specifically for blind and low vision riders.
These maps provide a hands-on way to explore transit systems, understand station layouts, and build confidence navigating independently. Whether you are learning a new route, teaching orientation and mobility skills, or supporting a student or client, tactile maps can make a meaningful difference.
What’s Available
MAD Lab is currently offering tactile maps for several Bay Area transit systems.
- Caltrain: All stations from San Francisco, south to Diridon; system map.
- BART: All stations at street level, concourse level, and platform level; Salesforce Transit Center; System map with all lines on one page and each line on its own page.
- SFMTA Muni T Line Central Subway Stations: Chinatown-Rose Pak, Union Square/Market Street, Yerba Buena/Moscone, 4th/Brannan – all show street level, concourse level, platform level, as applicable; T Third Line system map.
- AC Transit: 6 transit hubs; 12th Street Oakland, 19th Street Oakland, Downtown Berkeley, El Cerrito del Norte, Fremont, Hayward.
Each map is designed with accessibility in mind, combining braille, tactile graphics, and clear layout to support wayfinding and spatial understanding.
Who Should Request Maps
These maps are available for:
- Individuals who are blind or low vision
- Orientation and Mobility instructors
- Educators and service providers
- Community partners and agencies
Individuals may request a limited number of station maps per system, while instructors and professionals may request additional maps based on need.
How to Request Your Maps
Using the following forms, please enter your contact and shipping information, and select the maps you would like to order or pre-order.
- Caltrain Map Request Form 2026
- AC Transit Map Request Form 2026
- All request forms are also available on the MAD Lab Resources page (Forms and Sign-Ups section)
- Once submitted, you will receive confirmation and updates on delivery timing.
These maps are free of charge if ordered no later than November 17, 2026, thanks to the generous support of Caltrans FTA 5310 grant funding. Beginning in December 2026, the maps will continue to be available for purchase from the LightHouse Adaptations Store, www.adaptations.org.
Why This Matters
Access to transportation is a critical part of independence. These tactile maps are not just tools. They are a pathway to greater confidence, mobility, and connection. MAD Lab continues to lead in developing innovative, accessible solutions that meet real-world needs. With the upcoming expansion into 5310-funded map production and distribution, even more individuals and communities will benefit from these resources in the months ahead.
Questions or Partner Requests
If you are part of an organization or agency interested in larger distribution or partnership opportunities, please reach out to the MAD Lab team for more information.
This is an exciting step forward in making Bay Area transit more accessible for everyone. We encourage you to request your maps and share this opportunity with others who may benefit.
For more information, write to madlab@lighthouse-sf.org or Contact Us through our website.
