Citation

Ohmes M, O'Connor M. APWA Reporter 2002; 69(9): 18-20.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, American Public Works Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article offers a review of proposed changes to accessibility guidelines for new and altered facilities under the Americans for Disabilities Act (ADA). These guidelines cover access to sidewalks, street crossing, and related pedestrian and roadway facilities, and are based on recommendations from the Public Rights-of-Way Access Advisory Committee (PROWAAC). The U.S. Access Board, the federal agency that develops accessibility guidelines, is seeking comment on the draft, as well as feedback on usability and cost, in order to develop a proposed rule. PROWAAC looked at changes in the environment for pedestrians with disability since the ADA was enacted ten years earlier. Larger wheelchairs and scooters are in use and new technologies have emerged. This article suggests designers follow changes based on the new guidelines, which include providing wider sidewalk widths, curb ramps, and changes in truncated domes, among others.