Introduction
When lining a parking lot, one of the most important factors to keep in mind is ADA compliance. We Do Lines is familiar with ADA parking lot striping and maintenance. Creating an inclusive establishment that caters to all visitors involves accommodating the needs of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of daily life and one crucial aspect of that is ensuring that parking lots meet the accessibility requirements set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
It’s both ethically and legally intelligent to ensure that everyone has equal access to parking facilities… but what makes a parking lot compliant with ADA regulations?
Designated Accessible Parking Spaces
For starters, a fundamental requirement of ADA compliance is the provision of designated accessible parking spaces. These spaces must be clearly marked with the International Symbol of Accessibility and be conveniently located near accessible entrances to your establishment. The number of required accessible spaces depends on the total number of parking spaces in the lot, with specific ratios outlined in the ADA guidelines.
Proximity to Entrances
To enhance accessibility, parking lots should have accessible spaces located as close as possible to the accessible entrances of buildings or facilities. Minimizing the distance between accessible parking spaces and entrances reduces the physical exertion required by individuals with disabilities and ensures equal access to amenities. You’re ensuring people who aren’t as able-bodied will have a smooth and positive experience visiting your parking lot by placing ADA-compliant parking spots closer to the entrance of your establishment!
Accessible Route to Entrances
On top of designated accessible parking spaces and ADA parking space proximity to entrance, a compliant parking lot should have an accessible route connecting accessible parking spaces to entrances. This route must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant, with a maximum slope and cross slope as defined by ADA standards. Ramps, curb ramps, and properly designed sidewalks ensure smooth navigation for individuals with mobility impairments, including those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. It’s one thing to have an ADA-compliant spot where non-able-bodied people can park and it’s another to have a clear and accessible path for said people to make their way into an establishment.
Van-Accessible Spaces
Van-accessible parking spaces are specifically designed to accommodate larger vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, which is essential for accessible parking. These spaces should have an additional access aisle next to the designated parking spot to facilitate the safe transportation of individuals with disabilities from their vehicles. The sizes of these spaces are strictly outlined by ADA standards and will allow individuals with disabilities to make it to your establishment safely.
Proper Signage and Markings
Clear and visible signage plays a critical role in ADA compliance. Fortunately, We Do Lines understands that signage is an element that’s absolutely necessary for efficient and safe parking lot traffic flow.
When it comes to ADA, parking lots must include signs indicating the presence of accessible parking spaces, as well as appropriate signage to guide individuals along accessible routes. Signage should have high-contrast colors, large fonts, and raised characters/braille to aid individuals with visual impairments. Signage will help facilitate traffic low for everyone and will especially be helpful for those who benefit from ADA-compliant designation. By making your signage more visible to people of different abilities, you’re ensuring that safety is a number one concern.
Maintenance
A well-maintained lot is important for all kinds of parking lot safety but it’s especially important for ADA compliance. We Do Lines is very familiar with maintaining parking lots, whether it be asphalt repair, relining stripes, and marking, or just general concrete repair. Due to being sites where vehicles are constantly moving around, parking lots have a tendency to wear fairly quickly – this can include both the lining and asphalt. Car byproducts like gasoline, oil, and even salt can affect lots and wear down striping – so it’s very important to restripe!
Regular maintenance ensures that the paths of travel remain unobstructed, promoting safety and ease of use for individuals with disabilities, but in truth, a well-maintained parking lot benefits anyone using it!
Whether you are a general contractor, a facility manager, or a property owner, you can count on We Do Lines to get your parking lot up to ADA code. We have over 100 years of combined experience in the industry, and our team of technicians is licensed, insured, and professional. We’ll strive to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Call us today.
