While the City of Somerville was reconstructing the Front Entrance ramp to City Hall, public meetings were being held without provision of adequate physical access into this facility.
Several residents called the Community Access Project and requested that we survey these issues. We surveyed the exterior of City Hall andsubmitted this complaint to the MA Architectural Access Board.
the City ADA Coordinator responded with a request to "continue the complaint until November 1, 2011."
The City of Somerville hired an outside consultant to deal with curb cut and sidewalk accessibility complaints. The Community Access Project, an all-volunteer group of disAbility rights experts, responds to that document, pointing out gaps and problems with 2011 "remediations". We also remind the Architectural Access Board why they should enforce the code that prohibits apex curb cuts where perpendicular or parallel curb cuts are feasible to construct. Curb cuts need to be adequately oriented to the crosswalks; and, the crosswalks need to be perpendicular to the curb line. It's a public safety issue in addition to a human rights issue. We deserve safe, accessible and integrated Complete Streets.
appendix A1 -Pedestrian Plan_201402051129059977Carson Quam
The document summarizes streetscape design guidelines for Mammoth Lakes, California. It discusses recommendations from the Main Street Plan and Zoning Code Update, including widening sidewalks, using consistent street furniture, improving lighting, and requiring pedestrian-friendly design in new commercial developments. The guidelines are intended to create a cohesive streetscape that enhances the pedestrian experience and sense of place throughout the downtown area.
Substantial Completion: Lorton Road ProjectFairfax County
The Lorton Road Improvement Project in Fairfax County, VA widened portions of Lorton Road, Furnace Road, and Workhouse Road to 4 lanes with medians, turn lanes, bike lanes, and stormwater management features. The $30 million project was completed in March 2017 and included constructing new bridges over Giles Run and the Greenway Trail. The project improved safety and traffic flow along 2.5 miles of roadway.
1. The document analyzes the townscape of three cities, including Kuala Lumpur, through examining elements like linkage, permeability, patterns of movement, and spaces for congregation.
2. Chapter 1 discusses the sense of transition in Kuala Lumpur, looking at primary and secondary linkages between areas, how permeability decreases further into the city, and varying patterns of circulation.
3. Chapter 2 examines obscured diversions in Kuala Lumpur, including contact points where people meet, common areas of activity, and how accessibility has been converted through clustered urban planning.
The document is a letter from a disability rights advocate to school administrators detailing accessibility issues at the Somerville School Administration Building in 5 areas: parking, entrance, doors, signage, and accessible routes/emergency egress. It provides code requirements for each area and estimates costs for resolutions such as resurfacing parking ($6,000), reconstructing the entrance ramp ($3,000), and hiring an ADA consultant. The advocate recommends hiring a consultant to evaluate all school facilities and guide improvements to accessibility and compliance.
The agenda/presentation slide deck shown during the January 12, 2021 Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) virtual workshop. The meeting video can be viewed at https://youtu.be/vhINV_xi1qs
This document provides an overview and analysis of alternative alignments for connecting the Sheppard East LRT to the existing Sheppard subway station at Don Mills. It examines options for at-grade and elevated alignments from Don Mills to Consumers Road, including impacts to traffic, utilities, costs and schedules. Three options are described in detail, varying in their approach to the Don Mills station location and design of elevated structures over Highway 404. Analysis found technical challenges with the first option and greater potential impacts and costs with the second option compared to the third option of an elevated Don Mills station.
Dedicated to all the bloods of highway victims.
How to control Traffic by means of markings and signs, their specification and meanings.
All must follow these signs to save life.
Life is beautiful
The City of Somerville hired an outside consultant to deal with curb cut and sidewalk accessibility complaints. The Community Access Project, an all-volunteer group of disAbility rights experts, responds to that document, pointing out gaps and problems with 2011 "remediations". We also remind the Architectural Access Board why they should enforce the code that prohibits apex curb cuts where perpendicular or parallel curb cuts are feasible to construct. Curb cuts need to be adequately oriented to the crosswalks; and, the crosswalks need to be perpendicular to the curb line. It's a public safety issue in addition to a human rights issue. We deserve safe, accessible and integrated Complete Streets.
appendix A1 -Pedestrian Plan_201402051129059977Carson Quam
The document summarizes streetscape design guidelines for Mammoth Lakes, California. It discusses recommendations from the Main Street Plan and Zoning Code Update, including widening sidewalks, using consistent street furniture, improving lighting, and requiring pedestrian-friendly design in new commercial developments. The guidelines are intended to create a cohesive streetscape that enhances the pedestrian experience and sense of place throughout the downtown area.
Substantial Completion: Lorton Road ProjectFairfax County
The Lorton Road Improvement Project in Fairfax County, VA widened portions of Lorton Road, Furnace Road, and Workhouse Road to 4 lanes with medians, turn lanes, bike lanes, and stormwater management features. The $30 million project was completed in March 2017 and included constructing new bridges over Giles Run and the Greenway Trail. The project improved safety and traffic flow along 2.5 miles of roadway.
1. The document analyzes the townscape of three cities, including Kuala Lumpur, through examining elements like linkage, permeability, patterns of movement, and spaces for congregation.
2. Chapter 1 discusses the sense of transition in Kuala Lumpur, looking at primary and secondary linkages between areas, how permeability decreases further into the city, and varying patterns of circulation.
3. Chapter 2 examines obscured diversions in Kuala Lumpur, including contact points where people meet, common areas of activity, and how accessibility has been converted through clustered urban planning.
The document is a letter from a disability rights advocate to school administrators detailing accessibility issues at the Somerville School Administration Building in 5 areas: parking, entrance, doors, signage, and accessible routes/emergency egress. It provides code requirements for each area and estimates costs for resolutions such as resurfacing parking ($6,000), reconstructing the entrance ramp ($3,000), and hiring an ADA consultant. The advocate recommends hiring a consultant to evaluate all school facilities and guide improvements to accessibility and compliance.
The agenda/presentation slide deck shown during the January 12, 2021 Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) virtual workshop. The meeting video can be viewed at https://youtu.be/vhINV_xi1qs
This document provides an overview and analysis of alternative alignments for connecting the Sheppard East LRT to the existing Sheppard subway station at Don Mills. It examines options for at-grade and elevated alignments from Don Mills to Consumers Road, including impacts to traffic, utilities, costs and schedules. Three options are described in detail, varying in their approach to the Don Mills station location and design of elevated structures over Highway 404. Analysis found technical challenges with the first option and greater potential impacts and costs with the second option compared to the third option of an elevated Don Mills station.
Dedicated to all the bloods of highway victims.
How to control Traffic by means of markings and signs, their specification and meanings.
All must follow these signs to save life.
Life is beautiful
The document is a complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at a four-story commercial building in Somerville, MA. The 16-page complaint details 16 alleged violations of the Board's regulations from 1987 regarding an accessible route, entrance signage, thresholds, doors, stairs, elevators, restrooms, and signage. Photos are provided as evidence, such as of excessive slopes on routes to entrances, thresholds over 1/2 inch, doors requiring two hands to open, and restroom stalls under the minimum width. The building had undergone renovations since 1988 but still lacked full accessibility according to the regulations at the time.
The document is a 9-page complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at a 4-level commercial building in Somerville, MA. It details 16 alleged violations of the Board's 1987 accessibility regulations, including lack of an accessible route between entrances, insufficient signage, inaccessible features like bathroom stalls and conference room slopes, and lack of elevator access to all floors. The complaint provides photos and details for each alleged violation.
This document is a complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at the Somerville East Branch Library. The complaint identifies multiple violations of ramp slope and cross slope requirements, as well as issues with handrail heights, according to measurements and photos taken by the complainant. It provides contact information for the complainant organization and details of the library building and ownership.
This document is a sidewalk complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues observed at the Somerville East Branch Library. The complaint notes specific locations where the cross slope of the sidewalk exceeds the allowable limit of 1:50, as well as an area with a 1-inch gap and space greater than 1/2-inch wide in the direction of travel. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project of Somerville on November 30, 2010 regarding violations of the state's accessibility regulations for public sidewalks.
The letter responds to concerns raised in a comment letter about accessibility for disabled residents in Somerville. It summarizes recent housing developments that included accessible units. It also details training that building inspectors receive and accessibility features of municipal buildings. While acknowledging some limitations, it emphasizes efforts to improve pedestrian safety, such as a study that identified priority locations and an aggressive program to install compliant ramps. The letter aims to address the issues raised while highlighting the city's efforts to promote accessibility.
This document is a curb cut complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. The complaint alleges violations of accessibility regulations at the intersection of Illinois Avenue and Broadway in Somerville, MA, specifically at the East Somerville Branch Library. Measurements taken found the north side curb cut has a run slope of 17.1% and transition height of 4 inches, and the south side has a run slope of 16.5% and transition over 1/2 inch, all in excess of allowable limits. Photos document the issues and pooling water accumulation. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project of Somerville.
The Architectural Access Board considered a variance request and complaint regarding accessibility issues at The Armory located in Somerville, MA. At a prior hearing, the Board granted variances for the ramp slope and lack of landing but required an additional actuator be installed. A new complaint alleged multiple additional violations including lack of assistive listening systems, improper parking and signage, excessive ramp and threshold slopes, and missing or non-compliant handrails. The Board scheduled a hearing to address the new complaint and determine if further variances or modifications were needed to comply with accessibility laws.
AAB complaint submitted in 2010. AAB sends First Notice approximately 1 year later, after reminder by FOIA. CAPS re-surveys portions of complaint in September 2011 and amends complaint to reflect certain corrections made by owner as a result of the complaint. As of 9/28/2013, no further correspondence from AAB on this docket.
This document requests amendments to an existing complaint regarding accessibility issues at a building in Somerville, Massachusetts. It summarizes three requested amendments: 1) Require the owner to provide proof that a new accessible threshold also meets other accessibility requirements. 2) Dismiss one alleged violation regarding inaccessible entrances. 3) Add two new alleged violations regarding two-way communication systems and lack of an elevator to access a mezzanine level added after construction. The document provides context and photos to support the requested amendments.
CAPS filed a Motion for Reconsideration with the MA Architectural Access Board on March 5, 2012 after the AAB's Compliance officer failed to track down certain details.
The AAB thereupon sent the City a copy of this Motion, requesting those details.
7/13/12: CAPS has still not received any follow-up from the AAB on whether the City provided the requested information
This document is a parking lot complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. It details issues with handicapped parking at a building in Somerville, MA, including that the van accessible space is missing a sign designating it as such and the existing handicapped parking sign is not at the proper height. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project on November 12, 2010 regarding violations observed on October 28, 2010 at the specified location.
the Community Access Project sings out the concerns of people with physical and sensory disabilities in these Public Comments to MassDOT. Three recommendations, with photos, are included.
1. The document proposes building an automated car wash on a site near a university parking lot to benefit students, the university, and a car wash operator.
2. An analysis of the site found it was flat, accessible, and located near the parking lot entrance, making it suitable for an automated car wash.
3. The proposed car wash building would be operated by a third party to provide a quick, convenient washing service for parking lot users for a fee.
The document provides recommendations from the Boston Center for Independent Living and Community Access Project to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility variances requested for the Wayne Apartments project.
It recommends: [1] continuing the variance for accessibility requirements related to existing buildings but requiring more analysis of feasibility from the applicant; [2] denying the variance request to consider all buildings as one complex; and [3] continuing variances for the percentage of accessible units and accessible entrances but requiring the applicant to provide more information on maximum achievable accessibility. It expresses concerns about the need for accessible housing in the area and argues the applicant needs to demonstrate infeasibility before being granted any variances.
- Cityfront Square is a mixed-use development project located in downtown San Jose bounded by Market, San Carlos and First Streets.
- The project consists of three residential towers with 220 condominiums, 245 rental units, and 950 underground parking spaces. It also includes street level retail and a shared amenity deck.
- The density is about 320 units per acre, making it a compact yet contextually sensitive project. The tallest towers reach 285 feet high, the maximum allowed on the site.
Attempt to engage Somerville, MA Federally-funded Union Square Main Streets ("USMS") program to enable accessibility at this event.
USMS Director politely thanked me- but declined to change the venue to an accessible facility.
This project revolved around understanding the state of built form, services, and parking in Central Business District Nehru Place, New Delhi and need for regeneration.
The document provides an overview of the proposed Point MacKenzie Townsite Code. It describes the code as establishing guidelines to develop a traditional town through a series of transitional districts, moving from rural to urban. It highlights how the code emphasizes building placement, streets, and civic spaces over conventional zoning to create a walkable, mixed-use community. Visual examples then show what the different districts and street-level implementation would look like, ranging from low-density rural areas to a high-density town core. The purpose is to implement the code and fulfill a long-term vision of Point MacKenzie becoming a vibrant gateway city to Alaska's interior.
The memorandum provides an overview of solid waste screening and storage codes in Bellevue and nearby cities. It suggests that Bellevue update its codes to better address screening of waste containers and storage areas, based on the more extensive codes in Seattle, Olympia, and Portland. Bellevue's codes currently only regulate screening for specific uses, while the other cities have broader codes governing screening, setbacks, and enclosure of waste containers and storage areas. The memorandum includes comparisons of relevant codes from each city in two appendices.
Disability Rights expert Eileen Feldman submitted complaint to Federal Highway Administration #CivilRights division based on City of Somerville, MA noncompliance with ADA requirements on March 12, 2012. Result: City of Somerville agreed to hire a full time ADA Coordinator, to produce a current ADA Self Evaluation and to develop the subsequent ADA Transition Plan.
disAbility + human rights activist Eileen Feldman submits public comments on the Massachusetts 2013 draft, Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing (AI). The Massachusetts 2013 draft is here: http://www.mass.gov/hed/docs/dhcd/hd/fair/draft2013analysis.pdf
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Similar to Somerville City Hall inaccessible During Construction State Board complaint
The document is a complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at a four-story commercial building in Somerville, MA. The 16-page complaint details 16 alleged violations of the Board's regulations from 1987 regarding an accessible route, entrance signage, thresholds, doors, stairs, elevators, restrooms, and signage. Photos are provided as evidence, such as of excessive slopes on routes to entrances, thresholds over 1/2 inch, doors requiring two hands to open, and restroom stalls under the minimum width. The building had undergone renovations since 1988 but still lacked full accessibility according to the regulations at the time.
The document is a 9-page complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at a 4-level commercial building in Somerville, MA. It details 16 alleged violations of the Board's 1987 accessibility regulations, including lack of an accessible route between entrances, insufficient signage, inaccessible features like bathroom stalls and conference room slopes, and lack of elevator access to all floors. The complaint provides photos and details for each alleged violation.
This document is a complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues at the Somerville East Branch Library. The complaint identifies multiple violations of ramp slope and cross slope requirements, as well as issues with handrail heights, according to measurements and photos taken by the complainant. It provides contact information for the complainant organization and details of the library building and ownership.
This document is a sidewalk complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility issues observed at the Somerville East Branch Library. The complaint notes specific locations where the cross slope of the sidewalk exceeds the allowable limit of 1:50, as well as an area with a 1-inch gap and space greater than 1/2-inch wide in the direction of travel. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project of Somerville on November 30, 2010 regarding violations of the state's accessibility regulations for public sidewalks.
The letter responds to concerns raised in a comment letter about accessibility for disabled residents in Somerville. It summarizes recent housing developments that included accessible units. It also details training that building inspectors receive and accessibility features of municipal buildings. While acknowledging some limitations, it emphasizes efforts to improve pedestrian safety, such as a study that identified priority locations and an aggressive program to install compliant ramps. The letter aims to address the issues raised while highlighting the city's efforts to promote accessibility.
This document is a curb cut complaint form submitted to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. The complaint alleges violations of accessibility regulations at the intersection of Illinois Avenue and Broadway in Somerville, MA, specifically at the East Somerville Branch Library. Measurements taken found the north side curb cut has a run slope of 17.1% and transition height of 4 inches, and the south side has a run slope of 16.5% and transition over 1/2 inch, all in excess of allowable limits. Photos document the issues and pooling water accumulation. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project of Somerville.
The Architectural Access Board considered a variance request and complaint regarding accessibility issues at The Armory located in Somerville, MA. At a prior hearing, the Board granted variances for the ramp slope and lack of landing but required an additional actuator be installed. A new complaint alleged multiple additional violations including lack of assistive listening systems, improper parking and signage, excessive ramp and threshold slopes, and missing or non-compliant handrails. The Board scheduled a hearing to address the new complaint and determine if further variances or modifications were needed to comply with accessibility laws.
AAB complaint submitted in 2010. AAB sends First Notice approximately 1 year later, after reminder by FOIA. CAPS re-surveys portions of complaint in September 2011 and amends complaint to reflect certain corrections made by owner as a result of the complaint. As of 9/28/2013, no further correspondence from AAB on this docket.
This document requests amendments to an existing complaint regarding accessibility issues at a building in Somerville, Massachusetts. It summarizes three requested amendments: 1) Require the owner to provide proof that a new accessible threshold also meets other accessibility requirements. 2) Dismiss one alleged violation regarding inaccessible entrances. 3) Add two new alleged violations regarding two-way communication systems and lack of an elevator to access a mezzanine level added after construction. The document provides context and photos to support the requested amendments.
CAPS filed a Motion for Reconsideration with the MA Architectural Access Board on March 5, 2012 after the AAB's Compliance officer failed to track down certain details.
The AAB thereupon sent the City a copy of this Motion, requesting those details.
7/13/12: CAPS has still not received any follow-up from the AAB on whether the City provided the requested information
This document is a parking lot complaint form submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. It details issues with handicapped parking at a building in Somerville, MA, including that the van accessible space is missing a sign designating it as such and the existing handicapped parking sign is not at the proper height. The complaint was filed by the Community Access Project on November 12, 2010 regarding violations observed on October 28, 2010 at the specified location.
the Community Access Project sings out the concerns of people with physical and sensory disabilities in these Public Comments to MassDOT. Three recommendations, with photos, are included.
1. The document proposes building an automated car wash on a site near a university parking lot to benefit students, the university, and a car wash operator.
2. An analysis of the site found it was flat, accessible, and located near the parking lot entrance, making it suitable for an automated car wash.
3. The proposed car wash building would be operated by a third party to provide a quick, convenient washing service for parking lot users for a fee.
The document provides recommendations from the Boston Center for Independent Living and Community Access Project to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding accessibility variances requested for the Wayne Apartments project.
It recommends: [1] continuing the variance for accessibility requirements related to existing buildings but requiring more analysis of feasibility from the applicant; [2] denying the variance request to consider all buildings as one complex; and [3] continuing variances for the percentage of accessible units and accessible entrances but requiring the applicant to provide more information on maximum achievable accessibility. It expresses concerns about the need for accessible housing in the area and argues the applicant needs to demonstrate infeasibility before being granted any variances.
- Cityfront Square is a mixed-use development project located in downtown San Jose bounded by Market, San Carlos and First Streets.
- The project consists of three residential towers with 220 condominiums, 245 rental units, and 950 underground parking spaces. It also includes street level retail and a shared amenity deck.
- The density is about 320 units per acre, making it a compact yet contextually sensitive project. The tallest towers reach 285 feet high, the maximum allowed on the site.
Attempt to engage Somerville, MA Federally-funded Union Square Main Streets ("USMS") program to enable accessibility at this event.
USMS Director politely thanked me- but declined to change the venue to an accessible facility.
This project revolved around understanding the state of built form, services, and parking in Central Business District Nehru Place, New Delhi and need for regeneration.
The document provides an overview of the proposed Point MacKenzie Townsite Code. It describes the code as establishing guidelines to develop a traditional town through a series of transitional districts, moving from rural to urban. It highlights how the code emphasizes building placement, streets, and civic spaces over conventional zoning to create a walkable, mixed-use community. Visual examples then show what the different districts and street-level implementation would look like, ranging from low-density rural areas to a high-density town core. The purpose is to implement the code and fulfill a long-term vision of Point MacKenzie becoming a vibrant gateway city to Alaska's interior.
The memorandum provides an overview of solid waste screening and storage codes in Bellevue and nearby cities. It suggests that Bellevue update its codes to better address screening of waste containers and storage areas, based on the more extensive codes in Seattle, Olympia, and Portland. Bellevue's codes currently only regulate screening for specific uses, while the other cities have broader codes governing screening, setbacks, and enclosure of waste containers and storage areas. The memorandum includes comparisons of relevant codes from each city in two appendices.
Similar to Somerville City Hall inaccessible During Construction State Board complaint (20)
Disability Rights expert Eileen Feldman submitted complaint to Federal Highway Administration #CivilRights division based on City of Somerville, MA noncompliance with ADA requirements on March 12, 2012. Result: City of Somerville agreed to hire a full time ADA Coordinator, to produce a current ADA Self Evaluation and to develop the subsequent ADA Transition Plan.
disAbility + human rights activist Eileen Feldman submits public comments on the Massachusetts 2013 draft, Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing (AI). The Massachusetts 2013 draft is here: http://www.mass.gov/hed/docs/dhcd/hd/fair/draft2013analysis.pdf
ACS 2012. Selected Economic Characteristics for the Civilian Noninstitutionalized Population By Disability Status, 1-Yr. Estimates, Table S1811.
Astonishing stats indicate that in 2012: 22.1% of Americans with Disabilities are below 100% of poverty level, compared with 12.7% of Americans without disabilities.
1 in 4 (25%) Americans with disabilities aged 25+ still don't have a high school diploma, compared with 11.1% of Americans without disabilities.
5.1% of the "Employed Population Age 16 and Over" are Americans living with disAbilities, compared to the 94.7% of the American workforce who still live without disabilities.
It doesn't make sense that Americans with disabilities are still not "presumed disadvantaged" for purposes of gaining advantages and resources in Federal SBA employment and entrepreneurship resources.
Congress needs to take note, show leadership and moral courage, and recognize that Americans with disAbilities are ready and waiting in the wings for a chance to shine.
Give us equal opportunities in education and employment, make much-needed infrastructure investments in accessibility in all public-service facilities (including the Capital and other GSA assets), and hire more ppl with disAbilities (PwD) in leadership positions at all Federal agencies, especially DOJ, HUD, DOL, and HHS.
The 2012 American Community Survey (ACS), Table B22010, shows that approx. 7 million of the approx. 16 million households receiving Food Stamps/SNAPS nationwide have 1 or more family member living with at least 1 disability. Yup- that's approx. 44% (43.7%)
H.97 is named ""An Act to promote employment for people with disabilities." My testimony summarized: Let's call it by its real name. This is a bill to promote subminimum-wage employment for a certain class called persons with disabilities (PwD), while promoting a situation in which a certain non-profit entity (to be designated by the Council proposed by this bill) would receive certain non-competitive lucrative state contracts while managing those low-wage workers in (generally) sheltered-workshop settings.
The Boston Commission for Persons with Disabilities wrote to Attorney General Martha Coakley to follow up on a previous request to allow remote participation in Commission meetings under the Open Meeting Law for people with disabilities. The Commission was disappointed that the new 940 CMR 29 regulations did not adequately address barriers people with disabilities face in physically attending meetings. The Commission requested written explanations from the Attorney General on these issues and proposed adding "Discrimination" as an additional justification for remote participation.
House Bill no. 136, filed in January 2013, is a petition to increase the Commonwealth of Massachusett's compliance with federal law meeting requirements of the Amercians with DisAbilities Act. This written testimony explains that the US Dept. of Labor Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs announced a Final Rule on August 27, 2013, which made changes to the regs implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Most important is the establishment of the 7 percent workforce utilization goal for individuals with disabilities (IWD). Massachusetts has an important opportunity at this time to develop into a Model Employer of Individuals with DisAbilities!
City of Somerville MA signed voluntary agreement with US Dept. of Education in May 2013. This is not a comprehensive list of Somerville's Library deficiencies
The Somerville Public Library agreed to resolve an ADA complaint by taking several accessibility measures, including designating an ADA coordinator, reviewing programs to ensure accessibility at multiple locations, updating policies and notices, and making physical alterations to improve accessibility of entrances, restrooms, signage and routes by June 2015. The library will submit documentation and reports to the Department of Education on its progress in implementing the agreement.
The Department of Public Works in Somerville, MA provided a list of roads that were paved between January 2004 and September 2008 in response to a public information request. The letter, from DPW Commissioner Stan Koty, included the list of roads as an attachment and was sent to Eileen Feldman, who had made the information request.
The document is a request from the Community Access Project (CAPS) to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regarding fines imposed on the owners of the Armory for accessibility violations.
CAPS requests that the Board collect $45,500 in fines from the owners and use the funds to sponsor a series of community discussions at the Armory on civil rights issues. CAPS also requests conditions to ensure the City of Somerville does not financially benefit due to retaliatory actions against CAPS.
The document provides background on accessibility issues at the Armory dating back to 2009, summarizes the owners' request to reduce fines, and argues fines should not be reduced given losses to the disability community and lack of proof for owners
The document is an email from Eileen Feldman, Director of the Community Access Project in Somerville, following up from an Architectural Access Board hearing regarding 50 pedestrian locations needing accessibility remediation. It provides 3 priorities for how the locations should be addressed: prioritizing locations near government/public services, transportation, public accommodations, health facilities, and dense residential areas. It also notes funding from CDBG should supplement, not replace, the city's efforts. Finally, it questions the claim that none of the locations pose public safety issues, as any code violations by definition impact public safety.
The Massachusetts Architectural Access Board reviewed a case regarding accessibility issues at The Armory building in Somerville. Based on a site visit that found the entrance ramp slope was up to 8.7%, exceeding the maximum allowed slope of 8.3%, the Board voted to accept the slightly steeper slope and allow the building to be used for public events again. The Board also decided to review the abatement of accrued fines of $500 per day at their next meeting.
The Architectural Access Board held a hearing regarding violations at The Armory building in Somerville, MA. Previously, the Board had granted variances for the ramp slope and lack of landing at the entrance ramp on the condition that an additional actuator be installed by April 2010. A new complaint was filed alleging that the entrance ramp slope still did not meet requirements. The Board heard testimony from the property owner, witnesses, and complainant. Based on the testimony and evidence presented, the Board considered whether penalties would be assessed for failure to comply with the previous order regarding the ramp slope.
The document summarizes an email exchange regarding an upcoming press conference by the U.S. Surgeon General to announce a $1.57 million grant for public health initiatives in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. The event is scheduled to take place at the Somerville Armory, but the facility is not accessible to individuals with mobility disabilities. Community advocates email the organizers to request that the event be moved to an accessible venue, as the Armory has been in violation of accessibility laws since it opened in 2009. They provide details on the Armory's accessibility issues and ongoing fines. They emphasize the importance of ensuring accessibility and inclusion at an event focused on health, wellness and prevention programs.
The document summarizes the minutes from the first meeting of the City/MBTA Access Coordination Committee in Somerville. Key issues discussed include: [1] inconsistent enforcement of no parking zones and handicapped parking at bus stops, [2] access barriers at bus stops preventing wheelchair users from safely accessing stops, and [3] a lack of clarity around responsibility for maintenance and removal of obstacles. An action plan was proposed to map responsibilities for bus stops along select routes and create pilot accessible bus routes. Improving coordination between the city and MBTA was a priority.
This letter requests that the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board deny a variance application submitted by the City of Somerville. The variance seeks to construct a stairs-only pedestrian connection between a bridge and nearby path, without also including ramp access. The letter provides five reasons for the denial: 1) Ramp access is not structurally infeasible, 2) It will significantly disadvantage people with disabilities, 3) Crosswalks and curb cuts connecting both sides of the street are not included, 4) It may be subject to federal legal challenges, and 5) The variance application contradicts itself regarding accessibility and appropriate use of public funds.
Although the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is completing a $57 million dollar project which includes placing a gorgeous new facility on the historic site and modernizing the historic Palace, they requested Variances to exempt them from modernizing certain details so that people with disabilities can have equal opportunities to work in, and visit this Museum, same as nondisabled people.
The MA Historical Commission supported their request for a Variance by stating,"The MHC has reviewed the proposed variance requests and believes that without the variance, a significant amount of historic fabric would be damaged, required to be removed, or completely altered beyond recognition. Additionally, the museum may find it impossible to meet the intent of Ms. Gardner's will and its mission."
This letter, a response from DisAbility Rights advocates to the Museum and MA Historical Commission, was sent to the State Board as testimony during the Gardner Museum's Variance Hearing, November 28, 2011.
This letter provides comments on the proposed accessibility guidelines for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way. It notes that the guidelines are vitally important for inclusive communities but that local governments are not fully aware of how to correctly construct pedestrian amenities. The comments recommend strengthening the guidelines in several areas, such as requiring clearer language and measurements, addressing slopes and cross slopes during reconstruction, expanding the scope, and improving requirements for issues like curb ramps, signal timing, and protruding objects. The letter offers to provide any further assistance.
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Youngest c m in India- Pema Khandu BiographyVoterMood
Pema Khandu, born on August 21, 1979, is an Indian politician and the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. He is the son of former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Dorjee Khandu. Pema Khandu assumed office as the Chief Minister in July 2016, making him one of the youngest Chief Ministers in India at that time.
El Puerto de Algeciras continúa un año más como el más eficiente del continente europeo y vuelve a situarse en el “top ten” mundial, según el informe The Container Port Performance Index 2023 (CPPI), elaborado por el Banco Mundial y la consultora S&P Global.
El informe CPPI utiliza dos enfoques metodológicos diferentes para calcular la clasificación del índice: uno administrativo o técnico y otro estadístico, basado en análisis factorial (FA). Según los autores, esta dualidad pretende asegurar una clasificación que refleje con precisión el rendimiento real del puerto, a la vez que sea estadísticamente sólida. En esta edición del informe CPPI 2023, se han empleado los mismos enfoques metodológicos y se ha aplicado un método de agregación de clasificaciones para combinar los resultados de ambos enfoques y obtener una clasificación agregada.
Acolyte Episodes review (TV series) The Acolyte. Learn about the influence of the program on the Star Wars world, as well as new characters and story twists.
Here is Gabe Whitley's response to my defamation lawsuit for him calling me a rapist and perjurer in court documents.
You have to read it to believe it, but after you read it, you won't believe it. And I included eight examples of defamatory statements/
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Somerville City Hall inaccessible During Construction State Board complaint
1. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Department of Public Safety Docket Number
Architectural Access Board
____________
One Ashburton Place, Room 1310 (Office Use Only)
Boston Massachusetts 02108-1618
Phone: 617-727-0660
Fax: 617-727-0665
www.mass.gov/dps
GENERAL BUILDING COMPLAINT FORM
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THIS FORM IS A MATTER OF PUBLIC RECORD AND WILL
BE DISCLOSED UPON REQUEST.
1. What is the name and address of the building believed to be in violation of the Rules and
Regulations of this Board?
Name: ___Somerville City Hall
Address: _93 Highland Avenue
City/Town: Somerville, MA 02143
This is a time-sensitive complaint. While the front ramp is being reconstructed, access to
Somerville City Hall is substantially decreased.
This complaint details lack of proper signage at inaccessible front entrance, plus lack of compliant
temporary accessible entrance and features, to the maximum extent feasible, at the rear
delivery entrance. Photos show rusty, abrasive, non-grip ramp handrails, broken ramp landing,
and non-grip door hardware at facility's rear ramp/delivery entrance .
Above left: Somerville City Hall Entrance during Summer 2011 ramp reconstruction.
Above right: Google satellite view showing pedestrian path between front and rear of facility. The
delivery/rear entrance is ~ 500 feet from the Front entrance and HP parking spaces.
Page 1 of 6 Rev, 01/10
2. 2. What is the use of the building (please check one or more)? _x__MUNICIPAL FACILITY
3. Does it appear that the building was recently constructed or renovated? Front Entrance ramp is
currently under construction, July/August 2011
4. What date were you most recently at the building? 8/7/11
5. How many floors? _4 (3 plus basement)
6. Please check the appropriate section(s) of the Board's regulations that you believe is being
violated, then describe each section, as specifically as possible, in the space below. Please note
that section numbers are from the 2006 Regulations.
The code violations alleged in this complaint are named in red bolded font with yellow fill.
---
2.6 MAINTENANCE OF ACCESS FEATURES At all times, accessibility features must be maintained and
fully operational. (i.e. access aisles kept clear at all times, mechanical devices be kept in operating
condition, etc.).
During the construction of the front entrance ramp, the following public accessibility features are not
maximally compliant at the Somerville City Hall facility:
-(Service) Ramp landing surface and handrails, (Service) Entrance, (Service) Door hardware, and
Signage at Front and Rear Entrances.
3.10 TEMPORARY STRUCTURES Temporary buildings or facilities, including … temporary pedestrian
passageways around a construction site, shall comply with 521 CMR.
Temporary facilities at Somerville City Hall that do not currently comply with 521 CMR include:
service entrance ramp, signage, doorway, and passenger drop-off area.
3.3.4 No alteration shall be undertaken which decreases or has the effect of decreasing
accessibility or usability of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction.
In this case, the City of Somerville has already undertaken alterations without first ensuring that the
temporary access entrance has been mitigated to provide accessibility and usability to the maximum
extent feasible. Thus, for non-stair users, these alterations have the effect of substantially decreasing
accessibility and usability of Somerville City Hall during Summer 2011.
The following pages also name violations of eight more 521CMR codes:
25.6 ENTRANCE SIGNAGE
41.1.3c SIGNAGE
25.1.1 Service entrances
25.2 ENTRANCE APPROACH
24.5.5 Ramp handrail Size
24.5.6 Ramp handrail Shape
24.5.7 Ramp Handrail Surface, and
24.7 Ramp SURFACES
Page 2 of 6 Rev, 01/10
3. INACCESSIBLE FRONT ENTRANCE
25.6 ENTRANCE SIGNAGE Any entrance/exit of a facility not accessible by persons in wheelchairs
shall have a sign clearly indicating the location of the accessible entrance/exit.
41.1.3c SIGNAGE shall be provided at Accessible Entrances and inaccessible entrances shall have directional
signage to indicate the route to the nearest accessible entrance
◦ There is no directional signage indicating the location of any temporary accessible entrance.
At Front Public Entrance; the “ramp” sign is pointing to a current demolition area; and the
delivery notice to the left of the “RAMP” sign does not indicate whether the rear delivery
entrance can be used by people who cannot climb stairs, as the City Hall temporary
accessible entrance during construction.
Above: Somerville City Hall Front Entrance- no compliant signage provided. (Circled signage at left of
Entrance and HP Van-accessible parking is seen in close-up photo, below.)
Above: close-up of misinformation sign pointing to demolition area where prior “RAMP” existed; and,
notice for Deliveries. Notice says, “All deliveries are to be made at the rear of building.”
Page 3 of 6 Rev, 01/10
4. DELIVERY (SERVICE) ENTRANCE IN REAR
25.1.1 Service entrances: If the only entrance to a building, or tenancy in a facility, is a
service entrance, that entrance shall be accessible.
25.2 ENTRANCE APPROACH The approach to an accessible entrance shall be a paved walk or
ramp with a slip resistant surface, uninterrupted by steps.
41.1.3 (c) Accessible SIGNAGE shall be provided at c. Accessible Entrances
above left: rear delivery ramp entrance with temporary passenger drop-off sign for individuals with
ambulatory impairments. The bottom of the sign is at 4 feet and hilly grade of sidewalk is shown.
above, right: rear delivery entrance door
above: rear delivery entrance ramp from foot to entrance door. This photo shows the lack of smooth
paving at foot of ramp, and the lack of any informational signage indicating whether a wheelchair-user
can enter the building here; or, if not, where an accessible entrance is located anywhere within the
boundaries of this municipal facility.
Page 4 of 6 Rev, 01/10
5. REAR ENTRANCE RAMP
RAMP HANDRAILS The delivery/rear ramp handrails at Somerville City hall are not round or oval- and
some surface parts are flaked with rust.
24.5.5 Size: Handrails shall have a circular cross section with an outside diameter of 1¼ inches (32mm)
minimum and two inches (51mm) maximum.
24.5.6 Shape: The handgrip portion of the handrail shall be round or oval in cross-section.
24.5.7 Surface: The gripping surface shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.
RAMP SURFACES The foot of the delivery/rear ramp is crumbled and broken, not smooth.
24.7 SURFACES Ramp surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant.
Above, left: ramp's rusty, non-grip handrails. Above, right close -up: broken
ramp landing
(Please note: Complainants did not measure rear delivery entrance ramp's width and slopes, nor
handrail heights; nor did we measure rear delivery entrance's doorway widths, vestibule,
maneuvering clearances, or threshold landing slope)
NOTE: Separate forms are available for complaints on Curb Cuts, Handicap Parking Spaces,
Public Telephones, and Housing. Please call the office and request one or more forms.
OPTIONAL INFORMATION
The following information is optional, and your complaint will be processed regardless of
whether or not the information is provided. However, you should be aware that the less
information that is provided, the longer it will take this office to process your complaint.
a. Name and address of the building owner or manager:_Mayor Joseph Curtatone,
Somerville City Hall, 93 Highland Ave., Somerville, MA 02143
b. The Board only considers complaints with respect to buildings which are:
1.) constructed by the state, city or town, and construction, reconstruction, alteration or
remodeling occurred after December of 1968; or
2.) privately financed buildings that are open to or used by the public and construction,
reconstruction, alteration or remodeling occurred after June 10, 1975.
The following information may be obtained by contacting the Local Building Department
DATE BUILDING PERMIT(S) WAS ISSUED: __________________________________
ESTIMATE COST(S) OF CONSTRUCTION: __________________________________
Page 5 of 6 Rev, 01/10
6. c. The assessed value of the building will determine the extent that a building must comply.
You may obtain the assessed value of the building by contacting the Local Assessor's
Office.
ASSESSED VALUE OF THE BUILDING AT TIME PERMIT WAS ISSUED: Somerville
City Hall is not listed separate from the Somerville High School in the online Appraisal
Vision Assessor's Database
7. Name and address of person/organization filing this complaint (if organization is filing, please
provide the Board with the name of a contact person) (required):
Community Access Project- Eileen Feldman and Stacy Hart
PO Box 434, Somerville, MA 02143
8. Individual Signature (required): Please see signature scan Date: August 8, 2011
Page 6 of 6 Rev, 01/10