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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-02-02-COD-min.pdf Commission on Disability Meeting Minutes February 2, 2006 Present: Victoria Buckley, chair; Charles Cole; Francine Steiglitz; Sue Cusack; Hank Manz, Selectman liaison; and Kelly Magee, ADA Coordinator Invited guests: Steve Frederickson, Building Inspector, Town of Lexington Colin Smith, chair, Design Advisory Committee Materials and Construction of Sidewalks with Lexington Center Colin Smith conducted a formal presentation of the proposed connectivity piece between Bank of America and public parking area in rear. As proposed, Colin suggested that this connectivity piece would create accessibility to parking lot for all persons, encourage cyclists and skaters to use bench areas and bike racks, and would also promote increased appropriate signage. From this presentation, there was greater discussion as to the materials used for sidewalks within the larger area of Lexington Center. Colin expressed that the DAC wants to encourage building consensus regarding the use of materials among various groups within Town, including the Commission on Disability Primary factors considered when determining use of sidewalk materials are safety, aesthetics, and cost. Snow removal was also discussed as another factor for consideration, though Hank and Francine noted that the Town is taking steps to address improving snow removal on sidewalks. Per Colin, bricks and concrete are the most commonly used sidewalk materials. The benefits and deficits of both materials were discussed in great detail on the basis of the above listed factors, as well as snow removal and durability Members of the Commission expressed concerns regarding the use of bricks as a not only a physical barrier for persons with disabilities, but discussed the psychological impact which may result. Bricks often result in increased fatigue for persons with disabilities, and thus may limit a person with a disability from accessing a certain area due to the anticipation of increased exertion of energy having to travel over bricks. At this time,DAC is proposing the use of wire-cut brick sidewalks for uniformity within Lexington Center, citing both its preferred aesthetic and sustainability(with proper sub- base). Colin cited examples of these materials,with new instillations at Massachusetts General Hospital and on Federal Street, Boston. He again emphasized that the DAC's goal is to establish a dialogue with the Commission, as well as other groups, to address the varying concerns and interests of such groups regarding materials used in Lexington Center sidewalks. Following Colin's departure, the Commission reviewed the information presented by Cohn, and Chuck suggested that the Commission form a collective opinion on the DAC proposal. Sue suggested that it might be beneficial to research the stance of other municipal, state, and federal organizations, including(but not limited to) the Council on Aging Board, and MA Commission on Disability The Commission will continue to revisit this topic at our next meeting. Updates Steve Frederickson updated the Commission on compliance issues previously noted at Jasmine Sola. The actuator was installed as of February 5, 2006, and Steve has advised that hand rails also need to be installed. Miscellaneous Hank Manz informed the Commission that the Boy Scouts are looking to complete a Citizenship in Community project and may benefit from increased disability awareness. Charles Cole agreed to represent the Commission at the next Boy Scouts troop meeting. The meeting adjourned at approximately 5.30 p.m. Meeting minutes respectfully submitted by Kelly Magee, Social Services Coordinator/ADA Coordinator.