Concrete Ramps ADA Requirements

By Bruce Woolner

In order for concrete ramps to meet ADA requirements, they must contain certain elements and measurements. The majority of curb ramps seen around the country today would not meet these requirements. This is because they have either been built prior to the regulations coming into effect or the constructors were not aware of or held to the requirements.

One aspect of these ramps is that they have a detectable warning surface which would cover at least two feet of the ramp starting at the base and the full width of the ramp. The detectable warning field would be a contrasting color to the surrounding concrete for visual detectability. The detectable warning system is designed to replace the lack of a curb as a tactile warning for the visually impaired. The warning represents a transition from pedestrian way to vehicular way.

The measurements of the various slopes of the concrete ramps to meet ADA requirements are a factor as well. These include the slopes of the ramp surface, the landing area and the approach as well as the cross slope of each. The reason for limiting the slopes is to ease the effort required to traverse the ramp by the wheelchair user.

The measurements of the various slopes of the concrete ramps to meet ADA requirements are a factor as well. These include the slopes of the ramp surface, the landing area and the approach as well as the cross slope of each. The reason for limiting the slopes is to ease the effort required to traverse the ramp by the wheelchair user.

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