The Build Greater Austin Program in Austin, TX has dedicated $3.6m to sidewalk
installation, prioritizing improvements along transit routes. An accessibility advisory
group identifies locations needing curb ramps, maintenance, barrier removal, and other
spot improvements for pedestrians with disabilities.
“To promote both efficiency and accessibility, public entities may choose to construct
curb ramps at every point where a pedestrian walkway intersects a curb. However, public
entities are not necessarily required to construct a curb ramp at every such intersection.”
--DOJ Title II Technical Assistance Manual
“Alternative routes that make use of existing curb cuts may be acceptable under the
concept of program accessibility in limited circumstances where individuals with
disabilities need only travel a marginally longer route. In addition, the fundamental
alterations and undue burdens limitations may limit the number of curb ramps required.”
--DOJ Title II Technical Assistance Manual
The San Francisco Department of Public Works has established a 5-point ranking system
to identify and prioritize curb ramp installation. Of highest priority are locations with
existing ramps that are deemed unsafe. Ranking second are locations where no curb
ramp currently exists at a pedestrian crossing. A third category will add a curb ramp at a
location where only one crossing direction currently has a curb ramp. Priority four
includes substandard curb ramps that do not fully comply with standards but are
considered safe to use. Of lowest priority are severely-constrained locations where curb
ramp installation alone would be prohibitively expensive and require substantial
reconstruction.