The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) recently implemented an $85 million program to ensure all state highway-system curb ramps are accessible to people with disabilities by 2021.
CDOT staff and consultants visited more than 20,000 curb ramps to access accessibility between 2013 and 2017 and took inventory of how the curbs comply with CDOT’s Americans With Disabilities Act Compliance Transition Plan.
Curbs were measured and examined for things such as adequate turnaround space for a wheelchair and steepness of the curb ramp. They were then prioritized by severity.
“CDOT is committed to ensuring mobility for all travelers, regardless of ability,” Michael Lewis, CDOT executive director, said. “We are excited to take this significant step toward demonstrating that commitment by allocating considerable financial, programmatic, and human resources to the effort.”
Construction plans have been developed for the state’s more than 20,000 curb ramps. The plans were approved by the Colorado Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities. In its letter of approval, the council said the plans are what is best for communities and that the redesigned curbs also will be beneficial to seniors.
Work begins in Denver and Dolores this spring with other projects occurring sporadically after that.
The program is funded by the Colorado State Transportation Commission.