Thomas J. Hinshaw
|
October 28, 2002 |
Dear Access Board,
NASA has had problems with the present design which architects have been using.
The problem is that the current design that most architects have been specifying
use brick with raised domes on them or concrete which has been embossed. During
snow removal operations these raised domes are sheared off the by the snow
plows. This creates a maintenance problem for us. We are constantly replacing
the brick or cutting out the concrete. I have discussed this issue with local
communities, they have experienced similar problems. As an alternative, for
colder climates, we would like to suggest an alternative solution which is
illustrated on the attached file. This is a much more cost effective solution
for federal, state and local governments, which have fewer and fewer maintenance
dollars to work with. Also, in addition to the drawings, the concrete can be
dyed to provide a contrast.
We have tested this design with visually impaired personnel and have found it
met there needs.
Would the Board consider this an acceptable alternative and consider publishing
it in the standards?
Respectfully Submitted,
Thomas J. Hinshaw, Architect
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
John H. Glenn Research Center