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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-06-05-COD-ltr VS MOq O`t'�O 1775 N�4' s m p Town of Lexington ti z Commission on Disability u An' APRIL74" l FXI N(,'c(N Victoria Buckley, Chair Letter to Selectmen for Goal-Setting The Commission on Disability is charged with promoting accessibility and inclusion for the citizens of Lexington The Selectmen could help in this effort by actively integrating considerations of accessibility and inclusion into their policy and decision-making process Adopting such a stance is a challenging endeavor requiring constant advocacy and a commitment to building awareness within the members of our government and citizenry We strongly encourage the Selectmen to apply this thinking as they engage in the strategic planning and goal-setting for our community In addition to adopting this forward thinking stance, we have one more request that is specific in nature, and fundamental to the terms of our charge The Commission could use your assistance in promoting greater awareness about the challenges inherent in choosing brick, including wire- cut brick, when constructing sidewalks The decision to use brick is most often identified for its esthetic qualities This decision is made with little regard for safety or for total ownership costs, or life cycle costs, including the capital cost at installation, the annual maintenance costs, and the eventual disposal costs The choice of materials for sidewalks must be responsive to the needs of its users, users who include individuals with disabilities, elderly citizens, and people with strollers These citizens need smooth-surfaced sidewalks in order to traverse safely Ultimately, brick sidewalks are hazardous and unsafe and signal a lack of concern and sensitivity to the needs of individuals with disabilities In keeping with our commitment to fostering a welcoming community, we would ask for your assistance in proactively eliminating the use of brick as the primary material for all town controlled sidewalks Commission on Disability June 5, 2014 1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE•LEXINGTON MASSACHUSETTS 02420