ADA Ramps Renovation

ADA Ramps Renovation; why, how much will it cost and what purpose would it serve? What does it involve?

Have you ever tried to maneuver in a wheelchair? I did; first thing I noticed is that my arms got tired, extremely tired! Second thing I noticed was that curb ramps were rather steep and the longer I maneuvered the harder it was to get up those ramps. Other situations that caused alarm were the areas at the top of the ramps, where turning or improving positioning would take place were too small. Also, a parking meter and street light were in the way, not to mention the height of the crosswalk button, which was too high to reach. I recall thinking “why would they build things this way”, and “I do not want to go through this much longer”.

There are people who need to maneuver in wheelchairs because it is the “only” way they get around. To get around, the path of travel must be user friendly and if it isn’t there is no use having one. This is why the ADA was implemented. It is a “code of standards” to which all ADA ramp renovations must be constructed. The “code” keeps us all on the straight and narrow when building our community to allow safe access for all. The Americans with Disabilities Act is the minimum standard to which structures must designed and constructed. Many States and cities are being proactive with implemented enhancements to the minimum design criteria so access within the community is not denied to any individual.

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