What are the requirements for facility access?

The Town of Colma must ensure that all of its programs, activities, and services are accessible to individuals with disabilities. One key aspect of that is access to Town facilities.

New Construction: Any facility or part of a facility that is constructed by a state or local government entity after January 26, 1992, must be constructed in strict compliance with applicable federal and state building accessibility codes and regulations, so that it is readily accessible to and usable by people with disabilities.

Alteration and Renovation of Existing Construction: In accordance with all applicable accessibility codes, when alterations to facilities made after January 26, 1992, affect the usability of a facility, the altered portion, as well as the path of travel between the altered portion and the accessible entrance (e.g., hallways, bathrooms, drinking fountains, and public phones), must be made accessible to people with disabilities.

Overall Program Access: The Town is not necessarily required to make every Town facility constructed before January 26, 1992 fully compliant with current accessibility codes. However, all Town services, programs, or activities must be accessible to and usable by people with disabilities when viewed in their entirety. This is called “overall program access.” Overall program access can be achieved a number of ways. Structural options include altering existing facilities or constructing new ones.

Nonstructural options include:

  • Acquisition or redesign of equipment;
  • Assignment of aides to assist individuals with disabilities; or
  • Provision of services at alternate accessible sites.The Town must give priority to the option that results in the most integrated setting appropriate to encourage interaction among all users, including those with disabilities.
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