Tactile Tile Strips
By Bruce Woolner

Tactile warning strips are most commonly seen in individual curb ramps but also can be used in a long stretch. They are sometimes referred to as tactile tile strips in this instance. Most commonly this would not be found in a typical curb ramp but in a sweeping radius around a depressed corner at an intersection. In this case, the two individual curb ramps have been joined together so that there is no curb formed between them. Although this style is still fairly common in many jurisdictions, it is rarely the easiest construction solution. Also it is not recommended by the ADA as it provides no valuable wayfinding information.

Other common areas for long stretches of tactile tile strips are in front of buildings where the entrance doors and sidewalks adjoin the parking lot. Many building designs choose not to have a curb in this area. Instead of individual ramps, they have a strip of detectable warnings extending the length of flat transition between sidewalk and parking lot. These tactile tile strips are not as prevalent in these locations on private construction projects as they are in the public rights of way at intersections. The enforcing agencies are not as eager to monitor ADA compliance in these areas. Also architects designing these types of projects are less likely to be familiar with the federal requirements than those designing public rights of way.

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