|
Make an ADA request SDOT’s Sidewalk Accessibility Program includes planning, prioritization, design and construction of infrastructure to enable residents with disabilities full access to Seattle pedestrian facilities. These improvements include curb ramps, accessible pedestrian signals (APS) and new technology evaluations. Curb Ramps The goal of the curb ramp program is to improve access to Seattle’s network of sidewalks and walkways, particularly those for whom mobility is limited. Curb ramp design and construction includes a ramp with a tactile warning surface, landings, and necessary sidewalk transitions and (minor) utility modifications. Seattle builds new curb ramps when we install new marked crosswalks, by citizen request, and using Pedestrian Master Plan-developed criteria that identifies high-demand areas. Customer Requests In the past, SDOT received more requests than funding allowed us to construct. Thanks to reallocated funding, we now have additional resources to address this backlog. In the future, we will be implementing requests the same year in which they are made to the extent possible. The completion of curb ramp requests remains dependent on annual funding and seasonal weather.
Prioritization List Each year SDOT updates our curb ramp inventory list. The prioritization effort weighs various factors to determine the ranking of our inventory of curb ramps, including demographics, proximity of transit connections, and proximity of pedestrian generators (hospitals, schools and parks). The number of curb ramps constructed from this list each year will depend on annual funding. For the next two years, the backlog of citizen requests will be addressed before building ramps off the prioritization list, although some requested ramps are also on this list. Accessible Pedestrian Signal (APS) An Accessible Pedestrian Signal is pedestrian push button that produces an audible signal and vibration to indicate when it is safe to cross the street. Such devices can be helpful to people who are visually or hearing impaired. Starting in 2009, a portion of the Sidewalk Accessibility Program funding is set aside for APS improvements.
New Technology Evaluations Disability advocacy groups occasionally request that SDOT test new, alternative technologies focused on improving accessibility and mobility of people with disabilities within our transportation system. SDOT will devote a portion of our ADA funding to testing and evaluating these new technologies.
Thank you for your interest in the Seattle Sidewalk Accessibility Program. To request a new curb ramp, an Accessible Pedestrian Signal, or alternative technology to make our pedestrian facilities more accessible, please complete the information below.
|
|