Accessibility at RVC

Parking & Transportation

If you have a state-issued disability parking placard or plate, you may park in any of the designated accessible parking spaces on campus.

The Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) provides fixed route transportation to the cities of Rockford, Loves Park, and the village of Machesney Park. The buses are accessible and preferential front seating is available to those with disabilities. Those with visual impairments should be sure to inform the driver to verbally announce stops. More detailed information, including current fare rates and route schedules, can be obtained at: RMTD.org or by calling (815) 961-9000.

Paratransit Services: RMTD also offers an accessible origin to destination transportation service for persons with disabilities who cannot ride the fixed route. Information on Paratransit services can be obtained at RMTD.org or by calling (815) 961-2255.

To use Paratransit, the you must:

1. Complete a Paratransit application. The application must be completed in person at the Rockford Paratransit office at 520 Mulberry Street, Rockford, IL 61101.
2. Be certified as eligible by Rockford Paratransit. Examples of people who are eligible are those who, because of a disability, are "unable" to: board, ride, or disembark from an accessible bus; use the system due to visual or mental impairments; and reach boarding locations or situations due to a specific impairment related condition. Other considerations are: Age, distance to stop, or illiteracy by themselves are not considered a disability; People who are blind and visually impaired may be eligible if they cannot use RMTD's regular fixed route system; People with medical conditions such as epilepsy, kidney disorders, or diabetes may be eligible depending on their ability to use RMTD's regular fixed route system.

Commencement Resources

Guests attending commencement with special needs may request accommodations. Please submit your request for disability-related accommodations by contacting Disability Support Services at (815) 921-2371. Requests should be made at least two weeks prior to the event to ensure accommodations can be implemented on time.

There are designated seating areas within the PEC venue for guests who use wheelchairs or are unable to climb multiple stadium steps. The bottom rows of the bleachers are marked with accessible signage for these guests. In addition, a separate area is reserved on the PEC floor for guests with physical disabilities who use wheelchairs or scooters. Seating is not reserved and companion seating is limited to one companion in this area. Attempts will be made to seat other members of small parties nearby but cannot be guaranteed. All accessible seating is filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The commencement ceremony is interpreted and captioned for guests who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Two interpreters are stationed on the stage during the ceremony. In addition, live captions are displayed on a screen over center stage.