WASHINGTON - The Justice Department and the City of Newark, N.J. signed a far reaching agreement under Project Civic Access, a Department initiative to bring communities into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This agreement with Newark marks the 146th settlement agreement reached under Project Civic Access.
“Today I salute the City of Newark officials for their commitment to making their community accessible to all of its citizens,” said Wan J. Kim, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “As a result of today’s agreement, individuals with disabilities in Newark will now be able to participate more fully in fundamental aspects of American life, including viewing the city Web site, accessing emergency services, and enjoying city libraries, recreation centers, community centers, and parks. Their increased participation will directly benefit everyone living and working in Newark.”
Project Civic Access was initiated to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in civic life. As part of the Project, Department investigators, attorneys, and architects survey state and local government facilities and programs across the country for the purpose of identifying modifications needed to comply with ADA requirements. Depending on the circumstances in each community, the agreements address specific areas where access can be improved. Last year alone, the number of people with disabilities living in jurisdictions that signed Project Civic Access agreements with the Department was more than one million.
People interested in finding out more about the ADA or today’s agreement with the City of Newark can access the ADA home page at http://www.ada.gov or call the toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
###
06-339