#rampupbc
BC states that they call the BC handicap access that one has to travel with cars in the middle of the parking lot of the 5th floor garage (where the handicap access is) take an elevator, and then go across the parking lot of the top of the 7th floor garage and fight the cars (in a wheelchair). How will cars see a wheelchair, especially cars that speed up the ramps in the garage at night? This traveling around the entire campus for wheelchair users is not what is required of those who can walk.. a much shorter distance up these main stairs to campus. Here is how BC advertises itself on its 10 year plan:
Pedestrians
"...Boston College provides pedestrian paths throughout its Chestnut Hill Campus. Due to the topography in this area, stairs provide access between the Lower and Middle campuses...." (No, actually, they have a lift in the middle of the hall that is more like a diving board.. no safety rails, no independent travel.... How does a wheelchair user climb to this lift, now locked and shut off.. Now also with citations against BC for closing this lift?
"....Handicap access between the Lower and Middle campuses is available via elevators in the Commonwealth Avenue Garage and 21 Campanella Way. Many students, faculty and staff use these elevators. There are also stairs between the Middle and Upper campuses. Since most undergraduate students live on-campus, walking to class is the dominant mode of travel.
Current Boston College Access Barriers:
(1) Bapst Library: Wheelchair accessible door locked when other doors are unlocked in the inaccessible stairs prompted citations. Presently all doors are unlocked and accessible during hours of operation of Bapst and Gargan Hall. Issues continue to be present for the security guard who has stated that he will not help student access the elevator or programs of the library. The administration has stated for the Boston College armed police force to respond if and when the security guard refuses to allow the student to enter.
(2) Snow and Ice: It needs to be properly and promptly cleared from accessible routes, such as all wheelchair ramps, sidewalks, curb cuts
(3) Signage: There needs to be signs placed at inaccessible stair entrances to indicate location of accessible route
(4) O'Neill Plaza very inaccessible: New construction of O'Neill Plaza created wall of stairs to Gasson Hall and main circle, leading to it being impossible to travel directly to these main and heavily traveled locations from the main library (O'Neill).
(5) No accessible route from Maloney Hall to middle campus: The 5th floor Commonwealth Avenue garage is accessible route to O'Neill Library. The flight of 44 stairs of the O'Neill Atrium is main entrance to middle campus. The wheelchair inclined lift is faulty and not accessible. It is oddly placed to service only half of the run of stairs (22 stairs). There are no safety side rails on the lift, the seat with a seatbelt has the toggle controls behind one's head instead of required side reach and front reach, and lift does not level with the floor to board with a wheelchair. This incline lift was installed in 1995. It appears to never have worked since this time. The school is required to maintain accessible features. The administration has stated that the "wheelchair negotiable path" is the route around the entire campus. The other route from the 5th floor garage is back into the garage and across a parking lot. These are neither consistent with safe access (especially in snow) or parallel to the main path of travel.
(6) Quad green is inaccessible: The Quad is newly constructed. Newly graded walkway and stairs has rendered this path inaccessible to wheelchair users.
(7) Stokes Hall: New stairs around Stokes Hall gardens renders it inaccessible to wheelchair users. Flights of stairs are without handrails as required by the 521CMR building code.
(8) ADA/504 Coordinator: There is no listed ADA/504 Coordinator on campus with name, email address and availability. Mr. Richard Jefferson first stated in November that he was the only contact person for all of the access problems on campus. He stated that he told others, including Dean Durrett, to not talk to the student with a disability because he was handling all of the complaints. In January, after a 504 Grievance again filed, he stated that he was not involved with the grievance procedure (despite this being his title). On February 13, 2014, he once again changed his position and stated his only position is to wait until there is a formal grievance process ( form an ad-hoc committee?)
(9)There appears to not be any accessibility plan on campus for planning on removing barriers in programs and architectural barriers.
(10) Parking: There are insufficient number of designated Van Accessible and accessible parking spaces. The cement barriers painted burgandy color in the handicap parking spaces block access and need to be removed.
(11) Student Art Exhibit at Bapst Library- Gallery down flights of stairs, built in 2004
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/ugradsnewsletter/2011fall/article1.html
Below is outline that was presented on the website: bc504.simplesite.com with over 100 photos.:
The photos in this online photo-album were taken at Boston College (1/1/14). The Boston College campus is very inaccessible, especially surprising after the new major construction projects completed in July/Aug 2013. Presented here are over 100 photos of the problems with accessibility on campus.
[Above is slideshow. Below is text and thumbnail photos]
The main issues are:
(1)Bapst Library (Gargan Hall): This library is open when the other libraries on campus are closed. Gargan Hall is a beautiful, quiet study room. The accessible door in back of the building (ramp entrance) is locked while the other main entrance doors are open. No intercom or doorbell. The interior passenger elevator to reach Gargan Hall is closed after midnight. The security guard at Bapst stated there was no security staff to oversee that part of the library, so no accessibility provided to students. The rear door has a ramp, but door is locked all the time. They state it is due to security reasons. It turns out that there is also no one to see who is outside after 5:00pm, given that the door is only overseen by someone from 9-5 in Burns Library. The security staff stated that he would not allow a wheelchair user patron into the building at night to use the elevator. Front doors of Bapst and Burns open 24/5, Sunday-Thursday so no problem entering by stairs. Wheelchair entrance always locked. Different standards of practice. [Update-a citation building code notice issued, pending resolution.]
Update: 1/31/14- 2 incidents (see videos):
October 2013 incident: A student goes by electric scooter to the library after midnight to study when Gargan Hall is open. The accessible door is not visible and no designated signage to indicate that there is an accessible door near College Road. She enters and requests for the security guard to provide access to the accessible entrance. He states he is only hired to work from midnight to 8 or 9 am, and Bapst closed, so he will not allow her to use the elevator. He tells her to leave, stating that the lights are out at the elevator, stairs in front, ramp not maintained and that it is a safety risk. He states that he has no responsibility and neither does BC to allow a student to enter. She calls the BCPD. One of the officers tells him on the phone that he is discriminating. He still refuses to allow her to use the elevator (it is unlocked and all he has to do it turn the lights on). The emergency patrol arrives approximately 1.5 hours later to escort to the elevator 4th floor Gargan Hall. Sean, the security guard sat at the desk the entire time. Police officer states emergency patrol will come any time she needs to use the library to study (and she will need to be willing to wait for an hour or more inside our outside at the ramp to use the library). This appears to be an act of discrimination.
The BC Disability Services is contacted to resolve and an apology. The BC 504/ADA coordinator, Richard Jefferson, states that the issues are too "substantive" for him to respond. He states that he told others to not talk to her about the ADA/504 issues, and he will control all communication. He then states after a 504 grievance, he will not respond. She files complaint to the BCPD and requests resolution (still pending).
January 21, 2014: Incident 2: Student told that this security officer is disciplined and she is welcome. At 5:45am she visits accessible door intending to study while the library is open and others inside using the front door. It is extremely cold outside. The intercom not working. She waits and then travels to another building to make a phonecall to the front desk. The security guard
(Sean) tells her that he will not open the door because it is only for wheelchairs (not scooters). He states she is a safety risk. He then gives gives confusing communication for her to not come, and for her to come, and he will open the door. He states he is going to call his boss (Sgt or Lt) to block her from coming, and then tells her to come. She reminds him that she has a right to enter to study and asks if the door is fixed. He refuses to respond. She calls him from a cell phone after returning to the back door. After waiting another 10 or more minutes, an emergency patrol officer (Officer Reynolds) opened the door and states he was called because there was "trouble." He understood he was to block entry to the library (he did not know the situation but responded because of Mr. Armstead's call). It was heard over the speaker radio that the Sgt instructed the officer to not write a report, because it was "only a disability issue." Sean Armstead stated (as seen in the video) that he did not want to be videotaped. He did not tell why he was blocking entrance to the library or why there was "trouble." In the phone conversation, he stated he would not allow student in because only "wheelchairs" allowed.. and also stated safety risk. Once inside, the safety risk to the library would be the same for everyone in the public who visited the library. The student reported Sean Armstead to Captain Hussey.
The Dean of Disability Services responded that day in an email letter the resolution was to use the intercom or call the BCPD if the security does not respond.
The security or front desk staff is located on the 3rd floor. Gargan Hall is on the 4th floor. It is unlikely that the staff will sit behind the desk waiting for an intercom buzzer. BC has taken the position that they have made improvements and resolution. They suggest that they can install a card reader at this door at some point, so only students can use this door. They will allow all members of the public to use the other doors without card readers. Again, this is not fair or equal treatment.
The state 521CMR 2.6 and 504 Rehab Act (and ADA) requires for the accessible door to be open if the other stair doors are open to the public. Complaints pending.
(2)O'Neill Library Wheelchair Lift: The lift is designed to fill the need for access down one half of the 44 stairs in the Atrium to the classrooms and computer lab. The lift does not reach the ground and one has to be standing on the lift to press the toggles to move it to its position over the stairs. How is one to board onto it with a wheelchair and move it to the ground? There are no side protections or side arms, rendering it unsafe. There is a switch to turn it on and off, but no directions. There is a sign to state to call administration if it is not working, although the lift is in the stairway and open 24/7. There is a seat with a seatbelt. However, the toggle controls are behind the person. The lift cannot be operated independently even from seated position.
It is impossible to understand how the Mass Elevator Board or BC approved for this lift to be installed. It is unsafe and not workable. How does one travel to the computers by wheelchair when the option appears to only be a route involving stairs? Once this lift is removed, what is going to be placed in this area for access?
"...Elevators...At Boston College we have 74 elevators in academic buildings and residence halls, as well as four dumbwaiters and five wheelchair lifts. All elevators are checked and maintained on a weekly Preventive Maintenance Program. All elevators, wheelchair lifts, and dumbwaiters are inspected and tested once a year by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Safety for general safety, fire service, and emergency power operations...."
They state that they inspect the elevators weekly? The lift is designed so poorly that it does not have sidearms and does not reach the floor to load a wheelchair (8 inches off the floor). If inspected, it could not have met code in 1995/6 when installed. It cannot be controlled independently. How did the BC Preventive Maintenance crew 'annually' miss this?? How did the Mass Elevator Board and Stanley Elevator not notice that it is not able to lower to the ground? Anyone can see it does not even have side-arms. It appears that BC ignored its safety, and others gave it inspection sticker without inspecting. Staff states they never saw it used in 18 years. So BC put it up to use to say they service this set of stairs and serve students?
(3) Accessible route/stairs:There is no designated accessible route from Maloney Hall to main campus Gasson Hall (middle campus) other than by stairs when the stairs are open 24/7 and the nearby O'Neill interior library elevators closed. Newly constructed campus walkways, have stairs without accessible routes, no handrails, etc. If one is wheeling from Gasson Hall to O'Neill Library, it is impossible to go straight to the Library unless able to take flights of stairs. The spaces meant for student gatherings are surrounded by stairs. Wheelchair users have to travel further than other pedestrians to get to the same campus buildings.
It is unclear how Boston College, and City of Newton approved of these designs.
Snow removal: The walkways are not cleared of snow properly for wheelchair users. BC stated that the accessible route would be to use the top of the Commonwealth garage. During snow, there is no clear path of travel. The distance is longer than other pedestrians travel.
(4) Signage: Absence of designated route signage, parking throughout campus. This is inexpensive and required, yet for some reason, BC has not provided signage. There is not sufficient room designated in the parking garage for loading a van or scooter into or out of a car, due to the absence of designated parking. It is near impossible to figure out how to enter many of the campus buildings due to the absence of signage (such as Lyons Hall or Bapst Library). The newly designed exterior walkways appear to be accessible until you find they end with stairs.
(5)No ADA/504 accessibility plan or accurate accessibility map posted. http://www.bc.edu/a-z/maps/s-chestnuthill.html It is impossible to figure out how to get around campus by wheelchair. With a 10 year Master Plan for major construction, it would be assumed that BC would have an accessibility plan and self-audit of its programs and services. It appears they do not. To date, no alternative route of travel for access provided. The microscopic print on the map is not accurate. So for example, it is stated one can enter the O'Neill library to use the elevators when one cannot use the stairs. But it does not give alternative when the O'Neill library is closed and there is no access to the elevators. Dean Durrett's name is mentioned as the contact for disability services. Surprisingly, the ADA/504 Coordinator's name is not on the Office of Institutional Diversity website. There is no transparency. The practice and policies for grievance procedure is not followed.
Update: As of the week of Jan 13th, BC removed the lift in O'Neill from operation. Then stated that the top of the garage would be the wheelchair accessible path of travel for anyone not able to climb the 44 stairs to middle campus (when the interior library is closed/and stair entrance open 24/7.) There is no walkway or path in the garage 7th floor. It is for cars and trucks to park, not for people with mobility issues to travel. What about the snow and ice?
Update 2/5/14: Mass Elevator Board reported BC will be adding new lift to the atrium.. didn't provide details.
The elevator servicing the Commonwealth Garage is closed 11pm-6am. How then is it possible to use this elevator at night after this time in order to return to one's car in the garage on the 5th floor?
Here is a video of the journey and showing the length of time it would take for a fast electric scooter to get there (approx 10 minutes). A wheelchair user and crutch user, much longer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
BC Coordinator- refused to allow representative from MOD to visit (January). Update 2/5/14- President of BC's office allowing MOD to visit.
YouTube Videos of BC's accessibility problems:
http://www .youtube.c om/watch?v =sdF9FmtLP p8 YouTube video of incident with Security Guard Armstead at Bapst Library 1/21/14 More videos were added involving the incident where the security guard called the BCPD in an ongoing attempt to block the student accessible wheelchair entrance from a student.(see page of Video 1-3 and photos inside the library showing that they turn the lights out in hallway leading to the elevator and block access to the basement library stacks.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
YouTube video of the route designated as the "accessible path" when unable to walk up 44 stairs from Maloney Hall to middle campus. The route is not accessible, garage does not have an accessible walkway. Told to use the parking lot when it is not an accessible path. Told to take the elevator in the garage, which is closed from 11pm to 6am.
Photo Descriptions:
Photos #1-2- View of BC Eagle and clock, BC main entrance 140 Commonwealth Ave.
Photos #3-5shows very steep hills, near impossible to wheel up in a wheelchair. This leads for wheelchair users to need to find an alternative route up this hill to classes, if going from Campion building to O'Neill library. There is a map but it is does not show the accessible route. It appears this was never prepared or planned.
Photo #6-shows walkway and bridge entrance from BC's main O'Neill Library to Maloney Hall (cafeteria) and paths. It is the main path of travel from lower campus to the main campus level (called middle campus) of BC.
Photos #7-10- walkways from 5th floor garage to O'Neill and Maloney.
Photos #11-16-Shows the newly constructed walkways on the main campus 3rd floor entrance side of O'Neill library. Note all walkways visible have stairs.
Photos #17,18- Photo of bridge path from garage to O'Neill Library-1st floor. No accessible parking near accessible entance.
Photos # 19,20,21: Shows the front entrance glass doors of the O'Neill Library lobby, and separate entrances to the O'Neill building atrium with the 44 stairs. These are close up photos of the lobby of O'Neill building. What is notable is that there is no signage visible to wheelchair users on what to do if one cannot use the stairs to get to main campus (Gasson Hall). There is a small print sign that is not visible from a wheelchair. This shows this main route is inaccessible. It is presented to show that the distance of travel from Maloney Hall is relatively short. This is compared to the alternative route suggested by administration to go to the elevators inside the garage and take it up to the 7th floor lot of the Commonwealth Garage, and travel the full length of the garage. This is not acceptable. A solution is to place a full-service elevator in the atrium so that this main route of travel will allow for wheelchair users and others with mobility issues to have access to the campus and facilities.
Photos #22-24 The photos show views from the stairs of O'Neill Atrium looking down at the lobby, showing the large open tiers of stairwell without operable accessible features.
Photo #25is view from inside the O'Neill Library first floor entrance, showing a security gate, with a push button on the wall that renders it inaccessible. There needs to be a solution to this such as placing the accessible push button near to the security gate. There is insufficient time to get to the push button and back through the security gate to then open heavy glass doors.
Photos #26-35 and Photos #99-107: Shows the wheelchair lift in O'Neill building atrium, reportedly installed sometime in the 1990's. It appears it was intended as a solution to get people with mobility impairments to the mid flight of stairs BC classrooms ( second floor Atrium O'Neill computer lab).
A picture of a student using crutches near the closed platform lift shows a sign that states cannot use this lift without assistance. The purpose of a wheelchair lift is to be open to all students and the public 24/7. The photos all shows a volunteer using the flatbed after facilities showed us how to use it. The on-off switch is not apparent. The photos shows that one needs to have a strong left arm to hang onto the lift with only one side, and to hold the lift the entire time it travels. One can wheel off the front or sides of this, as the small lip on the bottom would not be sufficient. The photo also shows that the lift only becomes level with the landing when it is placed over the flight of 44 stairs. One has to get on the lift to operate it while it is in the air and not level with the ground. Impossible. The chair has a seat belt and controls behind the person. How can one operate it if sitting with seat belt?
It is inconceivable that this could be safe in any year of installation. Photo shows that the print on how to use it is blackened out. It is inaccessible. Photo shows a close up of the card from the Massachusetts Elevator Board stating they approved for its safety from inspection August 2013 until July 2014. This lift needs to be removed. Another accessible feature needs to take its place.
Photos #36-40:Shows second floor computers of O'Neill Atrium and an entrance door stating door is a designated accessible entrance. It is not. BC needs to address this along with an accessibility plan.
Photo 41 removed
Photo #42: Shows Lynch School of Education/Campion Building. This presently houses Campus School, with students with disabilities. Accessible directional signage is missing, and the location of the elevator for accessibility not clearly found.
Photo #43: Shows the rear door entrance to Lyons Hall. This is the building with a cafeteria serving all on campus, and houses Student Services. There is no signage near the stairs as required to show location of wheelchair accessible entrance in the back rear of the building.
Photos #44-51: Shows the newly constructed paths and set of exterior walkway stairs around campus at the Quad, Dustbowl and O'Neill Library patio(green). The new construction obstructs wheelchair users from being able to travel with the other students on campus, segregating the path of travel. This is not up to AAB code or acceptable. The contractors need to come back and redo the walkways to meet code and provide an accessible path for everyone.
Photo #52: Shows the Lower Parking garage (Beacon St) servicing the BC Conte Forum and football stadium. The garage is notable for lack of Van Accessible parking.
Photos #53-61: Shows the elevator top floor (7th floor) entrance of the Commonwealth garage and walkway entrance to the main campus (O'Neill, Gasson Hall). Photos show that it is near impossible to access the elevators with snow present. There is no designated HP parking near to the elevators. The length of distance from the elevator at the far end of the parking lot to get to Gasson Hall or O'Neill Library is great. In a snow storm, since the top of the garage is not protected, it may also serve as impossible travel by wheelchair. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
Photos #62-65 : Shows the walkway near St Mary's Hall construction. BC blocked it with a flight of wooden stairs. A complaint was filed about this in October. In December, they placed a walkway. This is the only entrance leading from the 7th floor parking lot to O'Neill library.
Photos #66-68: Shows Commonwealth Garage parking without required Van Accessible parking signs or marked HP parking. They promised to have this addressed by Dec 31, 2013.
Photo #69: Shows the project for St Mary's Hall includes residents and classrooms planned for a two year project.
Photos #70-74 : Shows newly constructed Stokes Hall grounds and gardens, with stairs without handrails, walkways without access. This needs to be redone to comply with AAB regulations (and ADA.)
** Photos of Stokes Hall with addition of new buildings in photo and location that does not exist on TKA architects website (Compare to photos of actual campus # 70-74.) http://www.tka-architects.com/
Photos #75-82: Shows Bapst Library and the lack of wheelchair access. The BC website states all BC libraries are wheelchair accessible. Copy of the AAB citation against Bapst Library dated 1/17/14. Presently pending compliance from BC.
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/about/services/vision.html.
Bapst is open 24/7 during the academic calendar year.The back door is locked all the time without a working buzzer (the main stair entrances of the library doors are accessible during business hours). The only entry is when security inside Burns unlocks the door from inside. There was an incident in October 2013 when the security guard refused to allow use of the elevator. BC stated they were addressing this. At present, they placed a sign stating that one needs to call to get into the building after 5:00pm.
Photos #83-85: Shows parking lot of Recreation Center with wheelchair ramp blocked with snow, and the designated parking blocked with jersey road barriers.
Photos #86-89:BC Brighton Campus, (Office of Institutional Diversity in this building). View of parking lot with designated parking spaces.
Photos #90-107: BC main campus photos with wheelchair.
BC 10 year Master Plan:
Thomas Keady, Vice President, BC Government and Community Affairs, BC Master Plan
http://www.bc.edu/sites/imp/
http://www.bc.edu/content/dam/files/top/alumni/connections/connx0108/masterplan_map.pdf
Stokes Hall Opens After Years in the Workshttp://www.bcheights.com/stokes-hall-opens-after-years-in-the-works-1.2975637#.UspKA_bRf-k
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CCsQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bostonredevelopmentauthority.org%2Fgetattachment%2FPlanning%2FInstitutional-Planning%2FHigher-Ed%2FBoston-College%2F2009-Boston-College-IMP.pdf&ei=6tbyUoToM6amsQSp04CIDA&usg=AFQjCNF1yLBUqSLA_-B6h4TqeJ6ZEObX0w&bvm=bv.60799247,d.cWc
"The only note of ADA compliance on the IMP for BC:
Disability Administration Contacts:
Richard Jefferson- ADA/504 Coordinator, Brighton Campus, 129 Lake St http://www.bc.edu/content/bc/offices/diversity/about/contact.html
Dean Paulette Durrett- Office of Disability Services, Maloney Hall http://www.bc.edu/offices/dos/disabilityservices.html
William Tibbs and Mark Lewis- Facilities Management. http://www.bc.edu/content/dam/files/offices/facilities/pdf/SUMMER_PROJECTS_2013.pdf
Other disability services at the Connors Learning Center
Links:
US DOE, OCR
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/qa-disability.html
Title 34- Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act- US Dept of Education: http://www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/reg/ocr/edlite-34cfr104.html
Educational Facilities: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/docs/dps/aab-regs/521012.pdf
http://www.ada.gov/t3hilght.htm and http://ada-one.com/articles-tips/access-higher-ed/
Section 504:
"...No otherwise qualified person with a disability in the United States…shall, solely on the basis of disability, be denied access to, or the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity provided by any institution receiving federal financial assistance."
"... Under Section 504, institutions were required to appoint and maintain at least one person to coordinate its efforts to comply with the requirements of Section 504 (Section 504 Coordinator). This individual has the ongoing responsibility of assuring that the institution practices nondiscrimination on the basis of disability and should be included in any grievance procedures developed to address possible instances of discrimination brought against the institution.. . "
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/about/services/vision.html
Disability Etiquette http://www.crinet.org/Default.aspxPageID=2663327&A=SearchResult&SearchID=8530
ADA Lawsuit against a private college
http://www.ada.gov/swarthmore.htm
Massachusetts Architectural Access Board- 521CMR
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.). 521 CMR 23.00: PARKING AND PASSENGER LOADING ZONES
23.1 Any person who has lawful control of improved or enclosed private property used as off street parking for businesses, auditoriums, sporting or recreational facilities, cultural centers, or general public use where the public has the right of access as invitees or licensees, shall cause such parking areas, including temporary parking areas to comply with 521 CMR.
Accessible spaces shall be provided as follows:
23.2.1 Total Parking in Lot Required- Minimum Number of Accessible Spaces
15 -25 1
26- 50 2
51- 75 3
76 -100 4
101-150 5
151- 200 6
501- 1,000 2% of total
1,001 and over 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1000
23.2.2 One in every eight accessible spaces, but not less than one, shall be van accessible, See 521 CMR 23.4.7.
521CMR 20.1 ACCESSIBLE ROUTE An accessible route shall provide a continuous unobstructed path connecting accessible spaces and elements inside and outside a facility. Accessible routes may include but are not limited to walks, halls, corridors, aisles, skywalks, and tunnels. Accessible routes may not include stairs, steps, or escalators, even if the stairs and steps are required to be accessible under 521 CMR.20.2
Within the boundary of the site, an accessible route(s)shall be provided from accessible parking, accessible passenger loading zones, and public streets or sidewalks to the accessible building entrance they serve. The accessible route(s) shall coincide with the route for the general public.
20.2.1 At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, facilities, elements and spaces that are on the same site
27.4.1 Location: Stairways shall have continuous handrails at both sides of all stairs. The inside handrail on switchback or dogleg stairs shall always be continuous.
Slide show photos:
Comments/corrections about website:contact [email protected]
BC states that they call the BC handicap access that one has to travel with cars in the middle of the parking lot of the 5th floor garage (where the handicap access is) take an elevator, and then go across the parking lot of the top of the 7th floor garage and fight the cars (in a wheelchair). How will cars see a wheelchair, especially cars that speed up the ramps in the garage at night? This traveling around the entire campus for wheelchair users is not what is required of those who can walk.. a much shorter distance up these main stairs to campus. Here is how BC advertises itself on its 10 year plan:
Pedestrians
"...Boston College provides pedestrian paths throughout its Chestnut Hill Campus. Due to the topography in this area, stairs provide access between the Lower and Middle campuses...." (No, actually, they have a lift in the middle of the hall that is more like a diving board.. no safety rails, no independent travel.... How does a wheelchair user climb to this lift, now locked and shut off.. Now also with citations against BC for closing this lift?
"....Handicap access between the Lower and Middle campuses is available via elevators in the Commonwealth Avenue Garage and 21 Campanella Way. Many students, faculty and staff use these elevators. There are also stairs between the Middle and Upper campuses. Since most undergraduate students live on-campus, walking to class is the dominant mode of travel.
Current Boston College Access Barriers:
(1) Bapst Library: Wheelchair accessible door locked when other doors are unlocked in the inaccessible stairs prompted citations. Presently all doors are unlocked and accessible during hours of operation of Bapst and Gargan Hall. Issues continue to be present for the security guard who has stated that he will not help student access the elevator or programs of the library. The administration has stated for the Boston College armed police force to respond if and when the security guard refuses to allow the student to enter.
(2) Snow and Ice: It needs to be properly and promptly cleared from accessible routes, such as all wheelchair ramps, sidewalks, curb cuts
(3) Signage: There needs to be signs placed at inaccessible stair entrances to indicate location of accessible route
(4) O'Neill Plaza very inaccessible: New construction of O'Neill Plaza created wall of stairs to Gasson Hall and main circle, leading to it being impossible to travel directly to these main and heavily traveled locations from the main library (O'Neill).
(5) No accessible route from Maloney Hall to middle campus: The 5th floor Commonwealth Avenue garage is accessible route to O'Neill Library. The flight of 44 stairs of the O'Neill Atrium is main entrance to middle campus. The wheelchair inclined lift is faulty and not accessible. It is oddly placed to service only half of the run of stairs (22 stairs). There are no safety side rails on the lift, the seat with a seatbelt has the toggle controls behind one's head instead of required side reach and front reach, and lift does not level with the floor to board with a wheelchair. This incline lift was installed in 1995. It appears to never have worked since this time. The school is required to maintain accessible features. The administration has stated that the "wheelchair negotiable path" is the route around the entire campus. The other route from the 5th floor garage is back into the garage and across a parking lot. These are neither consistent with safe access (especially in snow) or parallel to the main path of travel.
(6) Quad green is inaccessible: The Quad is newly constructed. Newly graded walkway and stairs has rendered this path inaccessible to wheelchair users.
(7) Stokes Hall: New stairs around Stokes Hall gardens renders it inaccessible to wheelchair users. Flights of stairs are without handrails as required by the 521CMR building code.
(8) ADA/504 Coordinator: There is no listed ADA/504 Coordinator on campus with name, email address and availability. Mr. Richard Jefferson first stated in November that he was the only contact person for all of the access problems on campus. He stated that he told others, including Dean Durrett, to not talk to the student with a disability because he was handling all of the complaints. In January, after a 504 Grievance again filed, he stated that he was not involved with the grievance procedure (despite this being his title). On February 13, 2014, he once again changed his position and stated his only position is to wait until there is a formal grievance process ( form an ad-hoc committee?)
(9)There appears to not be any accessibility plan on campus for planning on removing barriers in programs and architectural barriers.
(10) Parking: There are insufficient number of designated Van Accessible and accessible parking spaces. The cement barriers painted burgandy color in the handicap parking spaces block access and need to be removed.
(11) Student Art Exhibit at Bapst Library- Gallery down flights of stairs, built in 2004
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/ugradsnewsletter/2011fall/article1.html
Below is outline that was presented on the website: bc504.simplesite.com with over 100 photos.:
The photos in this online photo-album were taken at Boston College (1/1/14). The Boston College campus is very inaccessible, especially surprising after the new major construction projects completed in July/Aug 2013. Presented here are over 100 photos of the problems with accessibility on campus.
[Above is slideshow. Below is text and thumbnail photos]
The main issues are:
(1)Bapst Library (Gargan Hall): This library is open when the other libraries on campus are closed. Gargan Hall is a beautiful, quiet study room. The accessible door in back of the building (ramp entrance) is locked while the other main entrance doors are open. No intercom or doorbell. The interior passenger elevator to reach Gargan Hall is closed after midnight. The security guard at Bapst stated there was no security staff to oversee that part of the library, so no accessibility provided to students. The rear door has a ramp, but door is locked all the time. They state it is due to security reasons. It turns out that there is also no one to see who is outside after 5:00pm, given that the door is only overseen by someone from 9-5 in Burns Library. The security staff stated that he would not allow a wheelchair user patron into the building at night to use the elevator. Front doors of Bapst and Burns open 24/5, Sunday-Thursday so no problem entering by stairs. Wheelchair entrance always locked. Different standards of practice. [Update-a citation building code notice issued, pending resolution.]
Update: 1/31/14- 2 incidents (see videos):
October 2013 incident: A student goes by electric scooter to the library after midnight to study when Gargan Hall is open. The accessible door is not visible and no designated signage to indicate that there is an accessible door near College Road. She enters and requests for the security guard to provide access to the accessible entrance. He states he is only hired to work from midnight to 8 or 9 am, and Bapst closed, so he will not allow her to use the elevator. He tells her to leave, stating that the lights are out at the elevator, stairs in front, ramp not maintained and that it is a safety risk. He states that he has no responsibility and neither does BC to allow a student to enter. She calls the BCPD. One of the officers tells him on the phone that he is discriminating. He still refuses to allow her to use the elevator (it is unlocked and all he has to do it turn the lights on). The emergency patrol arrives approximately 1.5 hours later to escort to the elevator 4th floor Gargan Hall. Sean, the security guard sat at the desk the entire time. Police officer states emergency patrol will come any time she needs to use the library to study (and she will need to be willing to wait for an hour or more inside our outside at the ramp to use the library). This appears to be an act of discrimination.
The BC Disability Services is contacted to resolve and an apology. The BC 504/ADA coordinator, Richard Jefferson, states that the issues are too "substantive" for him to respond. He states that he told others to not talk to her about the ADA/504 issues, and he will control all communication. He then states after a 504 grievance, he will not respond. She files complaint to the BCPD and requests resolution (still pending).
January 21, 2014: Incident 2: Student told that this security officer is disciplined and she is welcome. At 5:45am she visits accessible door intending to study while the library is open and others inside using the front door. It is extremely cold outside. The intercom not working. She waits and then travels to another building to make a phonecall to the front desk. The security guard
(Sean) tells her that he will not open the door because it is only for wheelchairs (not scooters). He states she is a safety risk. He then gives gives confusing communication for her to not come, and for her to come, and he will open the door. He states he is going to call his boss (Sgt or Lt) to block her from coming, and then tells her to come. She reminds him that she has a right to enter to study and asks if the door is fixed. He refuses to respond. She calls him from a cell phone after returning to the back door. After waiting another 10 or more minutes, an emergency patrol officer (Officer Reynolds) opened the door and states he was called because there was "trouble." He understood he was to block entry to the library (he did not know the situation but responded because of Mr. Armstead's call). It was heard over the speaker radio that the Sgt instructed the officer to not write a report, because it was "only a disability issue." Sean Armstead stated (as seen in the video) that he did not want to be videotaped. He did not tell why he was blocking entrance to the library or why there was "trouble." In the phone conversation, he stated he would not allow student in because only "wheelchairs" allowed.. and also stated safety risk. Once inside, the safety risk to the library would be the same for everyone in the public who visited the library. The student reported Sean Armstead to Captain Hussey.
The Dean of Disability Services responded that day in an email letter the resolution was to use the intercom or call the BCPD if the security does not respond.
The security or front desk staff is located on the 3rd floor. Gargan Hall is on the 4th floor. It is unlikely that the staff will sit behind the desk waiting for an intercom buzzer. BC has taken the position that they have made improvements and resolution. They suggest that they can install a card reader at this door at some point, so only students can use this door. They will allow all members of the public to use the other doors without card readers. Again, this is not fair or equal treatment.
The state 521CMR 2.6 and 504 Rehab Act (and ADA) requires for the accessible door to be open if the other stair doors are open to the public. Complaints pending.
(2)O'Neill Library Wheelchair Lift: The lift is designed to fill the need for access down one half of the 44 stairs in the Atrium to the classrooms and computer lab. The lift does not reach the ground and one has to be standing on the lift to press the toggles to move it to its position over the stairs. How is one to board onto it with a wheelchair and move it to the ground? There are no side protections or side arms, rendering it unsafe. There is a switch to turn it on and off, but no directions. There is a sign to state to call administration if it is not working, although the lift is in the stairway and open 24/7. There is a seat with a seatbelt. However, the toggle controls are behind the person. The lift cannot be operated independently even from seated position.
It is impossible to understand how the Mass Elevator Board or BC approved for this lift to be installed. It is unsafe and not workable. How does one travel to the computers by wheelchair when the option appears to only be a route involving stairs? Once this lift is removed, what is going to be placed in this area for access?
"...Elevators...At Boston College we have 74 elevators in academic buildings and residence halls, as well as four dumbwaiters and five wheelchair lifts. All elevators are checked and maintained on a weekly Preventive Maintenance Program. All elevators, wheelchair lifts, and dumbwaiters are inspected and tested once a year by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Safety for general safety, fire service, and emergency power operations...."
They state that they inspect the elevators weekly? The lift is designed so poorly that it does not have sidearms and does not reach the floor to load a wheelchair (8 inches off the floor). If inspected, it could not have met code in 1995/6 when installed. It cannot be controlled independently. How did the BC Preventive Maintenance crew 'annually' miss this?? How did the Mass Elevator Board and Stanley Elevator not notice that it is not able to lower to the ground? Anyone can see it does not even have side-arms. It appears that BC ignored its safety, and others gave it inspection sticker without inspecting. Staff states they never saw it used in 18 years. So BC put it up to use to say they service this set of stairs and serve students?
(3) Accessible route/stairs:There is no designated accessible route from Maloney Hall to main campus Gasson Hall (middle campus) other than by stairs when the stairs are open 24/7 and the nearby O'Neill interior library elevators closed. Newly constructed campus walkways, have stairs without accessible routes, no handrails, etc. If one is wheeling from Gasson Hall to O'Neill Library, it is impossible to go straight to the Library unless able to take flights of stairs. The spaces meant for student gatherings are surrounded by stairs. Wheelchair users have to travel further than other pedestrians to get to the same campus buildings.
It is unclear how Boston College, and City of Newton approved of these designs.
Snow removal: The walkways are not cleared of snow properly for wheelchair users. BC stated that the accessible route would be to use the top of the Commonwealth garage. During snow, there is no clear path of travel. The distance is longer than other pedestrians travel.
(4) Signage: Absence of designated route signage, parking throughout campus. This is inexpensive and required, yet for some reason, BC has not provided signage. There is not sufficient room designated in the parking garage for loading a van or scooter into or out of a car, due to the absence of designated parking. It is near impossible to figure out how to enter many of the campus buildings due to the absence of signage (such as Lyons Hall or Bapst Library). The newly designed exterior walkways appear to be accessible until you find they end with stairs.
(5)No ADA/504 accessibility plan or accurate accessibility map posted. http://www.bc.edu/a-z/maps/s-chestnuthill.html It is impossible to figure out how to get around campus by wheelchair. With a 10 year Master Plan for major construction, it would be assumed that BC would have an accessibility plan and self-audit of its programs and services. It appears they do not. To date, no alternative route of travel for access provided. The microscopic print on the map is not accurate. So for example, it is stated one can enter the O'Neill library to use the elevators when one cannot use the stairs. But it does not give alternative when the O'Neill library is closed and there is no access to the elevators. Dean Durrett's name is mentioned as the contact for disability services. Surprisingly, the ADA/504 Coordinator's name is not on the Office of Institutional Diversity website. There is no transparency. The practice and policies for grievance procedure is not followed.
Update: As of the week of Jan 13th, BC removed the lift in O'Neill from operation. Then stated that the top of the garage would be the wheelchair accessible path of travel for anyone not able to climb the 44 stairs to middle campus (when the interior library is closed/and stair entrance open 24/7.) There is no walkway or path in the garage 7th floor. It is for cars and trucks to park, not for people with mobility issues to travel. What about the snow and ice?
Update 2/5/14: Mass Elevator Board reported BC will be adding new lift to the atrium.. didn't provide details.
The elevator servicing the Commonwealth Garage is closed 11pm-6am. How then is it possible to use this elevator at night after this time in order to return to one's car in the garage on the 5th floor?
Here is a video of the journey and showing the length of time it would take for a fast electric scooter to get there (approx 10 minutes). A wheelchair user and crutch user, much longer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
BC Coordinator- refused to allow representative from MOD to visit (January). Update 2/5/14- President of BC's office allowing MOD to visit.
YouTube Videos of BC's accessibility problems:
http://www .youtube.c om/watch?v =sdF9FmtLP p8 YouTube video of incident with Security Guard Armstead at Bapst Library 1/21/14 More videos were added involving the incident where the security guard called the BCPD in an ongoing attempt to block the student accessible wheelchair entrance from a student.(see page of Video 1-3 and photos inside the library showing that they turn the lights out in hallway leading to the elevator and block access to the basement library stacks.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
YouTube video of the route designated as the "accessible path" when unable to walk up 44 stairs from Maloney Hall to middle campus. The route is not accessible, garage does not have an accessible walkway. Told to use the parking lot when it is not an accessible path. Told to take the elevator in the garage, which is closed from 11pm to 6am.
Photo Descriptions:
Photos #1-2- View of BC Eagle and clock, BC main entrance 140 Commonwealth Ave.
Photos #3-5shows very steep hills, near impossible to wheel up in a wheelchair. This leads for wheelchair users to need to find an alternative route up this hill to classes, if going from Campion building to O'Neill library. There is a map but it is does not show the accessible route. It appears this was never prepared or planned.
Photo #6-shows walkway and bridge entrance from BC's main O'Neill Library to Maloney Hall (cafeteria) and paths. It is the main path of travel from lower campus to the main campus level (called middle campus) of BC.
Photos #7-10- walkways from 5th floor garage to O'Neill and Maloney.
Photos #11-16-Shows the newly constructed walkways on the main campus 3rd floor entrance side of O'Neill library. Note all walkways visible have stairs.
Photos #17,18- Photo of bridge path from garage to O'Neill Library-1st floor. No accessible parking near accessible entance.
Photos # 19,20,21: Shows the front entrance glass doors of the O'Neill Library lobby, and separate entrances to the O'Neill building atrium with the 44 stairs. These are close up photos of the lobby of O'Neill building. What is notable is that there is no signage visible to wheelchair users on what to do if one cannot use the stairs to get to main campus (Gasson Hall). There is a small print sign that is not visible from a wheelchair. This shows this main route is inaccessible. It is presented to show that the distance of travel from Maloney Hall is relatively short. This is compared to the alternative route suggested by administration to go to the elevators inside the garage and take it up to the 7th floor lot of the Commonwealth Garage, and travel the full length of the garage. This is not acceptable. A solution is to place a full-service elevator in the atrium so that this main route of travel will allow for wheelchair users and others with mobility issues to have access to the campus and facilities.
Photos #22-24 The photos show views from the stairs of O'Neill Atrium looking down at the lobby, showing the large open tiers of stairwell without operable accessible features.
Photo #25is view from inside the O'Neill Library first floor entrance, showing a security gate, with a push button on the wall that renders it inaccessible. There needs to be a solution to this such as placing the accessible push button near to the security gate. There is insufficient time to get to the push button and back through the security gate to then open heavy glass doors.
Photos #26-35 and Photos #99-107: Shows the wheelchair lift in O'Neill building atrium, reportedly installed sometime in the 1990's. It appears it was intended as a solution to get people with mobility impairments to the mid flight of stairs BC classrooms ( second floor Atrium O'Neill computer lab).
A picture of a student using crutches near the closed platform lift shows a sign that states cannot use this lift without assistance. The purpose of a wheelchair lift is to be open to all students and the public 24/7. The photos all shows a volunteer using the flatbed after facilities showed us how to use it. The on-off switch is not apparent. The photos shows that one needs to have a strong left arm to hang onto the lift with only one side, and to hold the lift the entire time it travels. One can wheel off the front or sides of this, as the small lip on the bottom would not be sufficient. The photo also shows that the lift only becomes level with the landing when it is placed over the flight of 44 stairs. One has to get on the lift to operate it while it is in the air and not level with the ground. Impossible. The chair has a seat belt and controls behind the person. How can one operate it if sitting with seat belt?
It is inconceivable that this could be safe in any year of installation. Photo shows that the print on how to use it is blackened out. It is inaccessible. Photo shows a close up of the card from the Massachusetts Elevator Board stating they approved for its safety from inspection August 2013 until July 2014. This lift needs to be removed. Another accessible feature needs to take its place.
Photos #36-40:Shows second floor computers of O'Neill Atrium and an entrance door stating door is a designated accessible entrance. It is not. BC needs to address this along with an accessibility plan.
Photo 41 removed
Photo #42: Shows Lynch School of Education/Campion Building. This presently houses Campus School, with students with disabilities. Accessible directional signage is missing, and the location of the elevator for accessibility not clearly found.
Photo #43: Shows the rear door entrance to Lyons Hall. This is the building with a cafeteria serving all on campus, and houses Student Services. There is no signage near the stairs as required to show location of wheelchair accessible entrance in the back rear of the building.
Photos #44-51: Shows the newly constructed paths and set of exterior walkway stairs around campus at the Quad, Dustbowl and O'Neill Library patio(green). The new construction obstructs wheelchair users from being able to travel with the other students on campus, segregating the path of travel. This is not up to AAB code or acceptable. The contractors need to come back and redo the walkways to meet code and provide an accessible path for everyone.
Photo #52: Shows the Lower Parking garage (Beacon St) servicing the BC Conte Forum and football stadium. The garage is notable for lack of Van Accessible parking.
Photos #53-61: Shows the elevator top floor (7th floor) entrance of the Commonwealth garage and walkway entrance to the main campus (O'Neill, Gasson Hall). Photos show that it is near impossible to access the elevators with snow present. There is no designated HP parking near to the elevators. The length of distance from the elevator at the far end of the parking lot to get to Gasson Hall or O'Neill Library is great. In a snow storm, since the top of the garage is not protected, it may also serve as impossible travel by wheelchair. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ5zl5lx7FY
Photos #62-65 : Shows the walkway near St Mary's Hall construction. BC blocked it with a flight of wooden stairs. A complaint was filed about this in October. In December, they placed a walkway. This is the only entrance leading from the 7th floor parking lot to O'Neill library.
Photos #66-68: Shows Commonwealth Garage parking without required Van Accessible parking signs or marked HP parking. They promised to have this addressed by Dec 31, 2013.
Photo #69: Shows the project for St Mary's Hall includes residents and classrooms planned for a two year project.
Photos #70-74 : Shows newly constructed Stokes Hall grounds and gardens, with stairs without handrails, walkways without access. This needs to be redone to comply with AAB regulations (and ADA.)
** Photos of Stokes Hall with addition of new buildings in photo and location that does not exist on TKA architects website (Compare to photos of actual campus # 70-74.) http://www.tka-architects.com/
Photos #75-82: Shows Bapst Library and the lack of wheelchair access. The BC website states all BC libraries are wheelchair accessible. Copy of the AAB citation against Bapst Library dated 1/17/14. Presently pending compliance from BC.
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/about/services/vision.html.
Bapst is open 24/7 during the academic calendar year.The back door is locked all the time without a working buzzer (the main stair entrances of the library doors are accessible during business hours). The only entry is when security inside Burns unlocks the door from inside. There was an incident in October 2013 when the security guard refused to allow use of the elevator. BC stated they were addressing this. At present, they placed a sign stating that one needs to call to get into the building after 5:00pm.
Photos #83-85: Shows parking lot of Recreation Center with wheelchair ramp blocked with snow, and the designated parking blocked with jersey road barriers.
Photos #86-89:BC Brighton Campus, (Office of Institutional Diversity in this building). View of parking lot with designated parking spaces.
Photos #90-107: BC main campus photos with wheelchair.
BC 10 year Master Plan:
Thomas Keady, Vice President, BC Government and Community Affairs, BC Master Plan
http://www.bc.edu/sites/imp/
http://www.bc.edu/content/dam/files/top/alumni/connections/connx0108/masterplan_map.pdf
Stokes Hall Opens After Years in the Workshttp://www.bcheights.com/stokes-hall-opens-after-years-in-the-works-1.2975637#.UspKA_bRf-k
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CCsQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bostonredevelopmentauthority.org%2Fgetattachment%2FPlanning%2FInstitutional-Planning%2FHigher-Ed%2FBoston-College%2F2009-Boston-College-IMP.pdf&ei=6tbyUoToM6amsQSp04CIDA&usg=AFQjCNF1yLBUqSLA_-B6h4TqeJ6ZEObX0w&bvm=bv.60799247,d.cWc
"The only note of ADA compliance on the IMP for BC:
- Pedestrians
Boston College provides pedestrian paths throughout its Chestnut Hill Campus. Due to the topography in this area, stairs provide access between the Lower and Middle campuses. Handicap access between the Lower and Middle campuses is available via elevators in the Commonwealth Avenue Garage and 21 Campanella Way. Many students, faculty and staff use these elevators. There are also stairs between the Middle and Upper campuses. Since most undergraduate students live on-campus, walking to class is the dominant mode of travel.
Disability Administration Contacts:
Richard Jefferson- ADA/504 Coordinator, Brighton Campus, 129 Lake St http://www.bc.edu/content/bc/offices/diversity/about/contact.html
Dean Paulette Durrett- Office of Disability Services, Maloney Hall http://www.bc.edu/offices/dos/disabilityservices.html
William Tibbs and Mark Lewis- Facilities Management. http://www.bc.edu/content/dam/files/offices/facilities/pdf/SUMMER_PROJECTS_2013.pdf
Other disability services at the Connors Learning Center
Links:
US DOE, OCR
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/qa-disability.html
Title 34- Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act- US Dept of Education: http://www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/reg/ocr/edlite-34cfr104.html
Educational Facilities: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/docs/dps/aab-regs/521012.pdf
http://www.ada.gov/t3hilght.htm and http://ada-one.com/articles-tips/access-higher-ed/
Section 504:
"...No otherwise qualified person with a disability in the United States…shall, solely on the basis of disability, be denied access to, or the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity provided by any institution receiving federal financial assistance."
"... Under Section 504, institutions were required to appoint and maintain at least one person to coordinate its efforts to comply with the requirements of Section 504 (Section 504 Coordinator). This individual has the ongoing responsibility of assuring that the institution practices nondiscrimination on the basis of disability and should be included in any grievance procedures developed to address possible instances of discrimination brought against the institution.. . "
http://www.bc.edu/libraries/about/services/vision.html
Disability Etiquette http://www.crinet.org/Default.aspxPageID=2663327&A=SearchResult&SearchID=8530
ADA Lawsuit against a private college
http://www.ada.gov/swarthmore.htm
Massachusetts Architectural Access Board- 521CMR
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.). 521 CMR 23.00: PARKING AND PASSENGER LOADING ZONES
23.1 Any person who has lawful control of improved or enclosed private property used as off street parking for businesses, auditoriums, sporting or recreational facilities, cultural centers, or general public use where the public has the right of access as invitees or licensees, shall cause such parking areas, including temporary parking areas to comply with 521 CMR.
Accessible spaces shall be provided as follows:
23.2.1 Total Parking in Lot Required- Minimum Number of Accessible Spaces
15 -25 1
26- 50 2
51- 75 3
76 -100 4
101-150 5
151- 200 6
501- 1,000 2% of total
1,001 and over 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1000
23.2.2 One in every eight accessible spaces, but not less than one, shall be van accessible, See 521 CMR 23.4.7.
521CMR 20.1 ACCESSIBLE ROUTE An accessible route shall provide a continuous unobstructed path connecting accessible spaces and elements inside and outside a facility. Accessible routes may include but are not limited to walks, halls, corridors, aisles, skywalks, and tunnels. Accessible routes may not include stairs, steps, or escalators, even if the stairs and steps are required to be accessible under 521 CMR.20.2
Within the boundary of the site, an accessible route(s)shall be provided from accessible parking, accessible passenger loading zones, and public streets or sidewalks to the accessible building entrance they serve. The accessible route(s) shall coincide with the route for the general public.
20.2.1 At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, facilities, elements and spaces that are on the same site
27.4.1 Location: Stairways shall have continuous handrails at both sides of all stairs. The inside handrail on switchback or dogleg stairs shall always be continuous.
Slide show photos:
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