What Are The Steps To Achieve ADA Compliance For Sidewalks In NYC?

The ADA prohibits mobility-related discrimination in transportation, employment, public accommodations, and sidewalks. According to the Department of Labor, walkways and other commercial properties should be accessible to disabled people. 

ADA compliance makes paths safe and easy for disabled people. This includes wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aid users. Legal liabilities are avoided by ADA compliance. This article covers everything you need to know to make your walkways ADA-compliant.

What Are The ADA Sidewalk Requirements?

When building sidewalks and curb ramps, you must follow ADA standards. Fix cracked concrete and repair sidewalks immediately. To ensure your sidewalk complies, follow these steps.

Curb Ramps

Curb ramps are needed at sidewalk-curb intersections like street corners. These make street crossings much easier for the visually impaired. 

Curb ramps must be 36 inches wide and slope less than 1:12. Ramps must have a brightly coloured dome-shaped warning sign.

 

Sidewalk Slope

Sidewalks must meet certain slope requirements to ensure the safety and ease of pedestrians. Ramps, which have an even higher incline than walkways, violate city standards.

Width of the Sidewalk

Wheelchair users must consider sidewalk width. For ADA compliance, sidewalks can be wider than 36 inches (3 feet).

If sidewalks are narrower than 60 inches, passing spaces must be built every 200 feet. The sides of these passageways, which can be driveways or concrete slabs, must be 60 inches wide.

Trip Hazards

Cracked sidewalks, driveways, and lifts are the most common ADA trip hazards. Trip hazards occur when height changes are one fourth of an inch, according to the ADA. Repair damaged sidewalks immediately to avoid legal issues.

Surface Texture of the Sidewalk

Disabled people should walk comfortably on pathways textured with care. Concrete blocks provide a solid, sturdy, and non-slip surface. Make sure your concrete's finish is up to code to prevent people from tripping.

 

Common ADA Sidewalk Violations

• Cracks or uneven surfaces prevent disabled people from walking.
• Insufficient or nonexistent curb ramps make sidewalks unsafe for wheelchair users.
• Disabled people struggle to walk due to litter, overhanging trees, and misplaced signs.
• Without proper signage, routes and parking areas are unrecognisable.

Steps to Achieve ADA-Compliant Sidewalks

These steps will help you comply with the ADA.

Do an In-depth Exam

Start by inspecting your property's sidewalks for ADA violations. Cracks, uneven surfaces, potholes, and tree root damage should be checked on curb steps.

Repair Cracks and Other Damages

Cracks and other road damage detract from the area's aesthetics and endanger pedestrians and drivers.

Ensure Proper Curb Ramp Installation 

Curb ramps are safe for mobility aid users if they follow ADA guidelines for slope, width, and tactile signage. 

Level Off Uneven Surfaces

Mobility-impaired people struggle on uneven surfaces. To make walking easier, smooth road bumps.

Consistent Upkeep 

Regular upkeep is consistent maintenance. Examine and fix new issues that arise.

Make Sure There Are Enough Signs 

Signs for accessible parking, walking paths, and other information should be visible to disabled people.

Conclusion 

Adhering to ADA standards for walkways is both the law and the moral thing to do. While some property owners may attempt to tackle ADA compliance issues on their own, it is highly recommended to hire local contractors to ensure comprehensive and practical outcomes.