County of Ventura Public Works Agency

SUBJECT: DRAFT GUIDELINES ON ACCESSIBLE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY PROPOSED BY THE U. S. ACCESS BOARD
 

The County of Ventura, Transportation Department has reviewed Mr. Daniel E. Centa’s (Assistant City Manager for Transportation, City of Pueblo Colorado) letter of August 20, 2002 (copy enclosed for reference). We find that it is a very comprehensive and well written letter and we echo his comments. We support the idea of improved accessibility in the public right of way, however, illogical or improperly thought out rules or restrictions can inadvertently result in unintended adverse consequences. Many of the proposed rules could in fact reduce public safety and access, if followed to the extreme.

We have for several years struggled with conflicting regulations from different federal and state agencies with regard to handicap access ramps and other similar improvements. At times it is simply impossible to build a ramp that meets all current ADA requirements, with existing street grades or other existing physical constraints. We have to try to fit the ramp in as best we can and on occasion that requires some compromise.

Has there been sufficient research to confirm that truncated domes serve a beneficial and economical purpose or is this requirement based on a limited perception? It is our observation that, in addition to being very difficult to build, they can be a slip hazard particularly when damp. The standard (chevron striped) handicap ramps seem to fulfill the purpose of providing suitable guidance for visually impaired pedestrians when properly installed.

Very truly yours
Wm. Butch Britt
Deputy Director or of Public Works
Transportation Department