An important aspect of being in the asphalt business is knowing our audience. Not just the property managers and boards—the individuals who frequent those paved surfaces each and every day bring a unique set of needs and considerations to a property. Depending on the client needs, whether they be residential or commercial, we create a plan for surfaces that are not only nice to look at, but are also easy to use and ADA compliant.
In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all places that are open to the general public. An estimated 1 in 7 Americans experience mobility challenges, which means making a sound plan for accessible approach and entrance to your property not only protects you against complaints and lawsuits, it also provides a more accommodating way of life for those who frequent your parking lot, sidewalks, and entries. In addition to mobility challenges, vision and hearing disabilities can be eased by proper surface treatments.
In assessing your property for ADA compliance, our experts look at many factors, including markings, parking spaces, van access, aisle width, curb ramps, appropriate slopes, and the surface area itself, which must be firm, stable, and slip resistant. Government regulations can only go so far in the mission to keeping properties user friendly. Outside of the specifics of the law, there are other practical considerations to evaluate depending on your situation. For instance, if your clubhouse and pool areas are in a senior living complex, additional spaces and planning will ensure that the residents are able to access shared areas in a convenient way. Schools and churches may also require additional focus on making sure the shared areas are easily accessed.
Although private residences are not subject to the ADA regulations, homeowners and associations may want to consider and implement some or all of the ADA practices when creating or re-doing sidewalks, paths, and driveways. The extra attention to these details may enable residents to live in their homes more easily later in life and add resale value.
If your property is not up to regulations, we will create a plan in conjunction with your budget and other surface maintenance needs to get it to where it needs to be and keep it current. There’s a lot to know about hitting the mark when it comes to ADA law. We welcome the opportunity to help you make a difference in the lives of those with disabilities by assessing your current surfaces and creating a plan for best compliance.
