The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), last revised in 2016, highlights the importance of equal and easy access to public properties. These public properties include restaurants, stores, parks, hospitals, theaters, and places everyone has the right to go. Continue reading about the importance of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps.
Understanding Sidewalks and Ramps
Sidewalks are the walking paths on either side of the roads, and you can view thousands of people walking on them daily. However, many people prefer to walk to their destinations if they are nearby. Unfortunately, it gets overwhelming for a person who uses a wheelchair to guide their way through the crowd if many people walk on the sidewalks. Another situation arises when there’s a grate on the road or a slight bump, and they can’t pass it.
This is why ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps are essential. Atlantic Maintenance Group can install concrete curb ramps on top of your road to accommodate easy access for a wheelchair. Also, the ramp connects to the road, allowing disabled people to drive themselves on and off the sidewalk without assistance. Another common place for installing ramps is where a sidewalk develops a curb at road intersections. Remember they are not too wide to provoke traffic problems.
Benefits of ADA Compliant Sidewalks and Ramps
Curb ramps first appeared in the late 1940s. At that time, they were an accessibility benefit. Today that is no longer the case. ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps benefit everyone, whether they have a disability. They also make it easier for people with visual impairments to transition from one pavement surface to another. Additionally, they assist people carrying heavy bags or pushing a stroller to make deliveries.
Technical Measurements
In addition, the width of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps must be at least 3 feet, while the surface texture should be solid and non-slippery. The material for the slope shouldn’t misbalance the wheelchair. Plus, the ramp must be made at an elevated height if grates are on the road. This can make the wheelchair move quickly.
Whether you need to resurface an existing sidewalk or install a new concrete ramp for ADA compliance, Atlantic Maintenance Group’s professionals deliver the highest quality artistry on all our concrete services. Call us today at 410-768-4720!
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Atlantic Maintenance Group is a full-service landscaping company providing maintenance, design, and construction, as well as snow removal and asphalt and concrete services. We are your source for complete landscape and facility maintenance for commercial and residential properties throughout Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. We are a self-performing landscaping company, meaning we don’t hire subcontractors, and senior management is involved with every project. Our highly trained team of professionals receives constant, ongoing education on the latest industry trends, updates, and safety measures. This ensures we can deliver outstanding customer service and results to our clients, regardless of the size of your job.