HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-08-20-COD-SpecialPermitResDevel-min Ad Hoc Special Permit Residential Development Zoning By-law Committee
Value Statement of Commission on Disability
August 20, 2019
The Commission on Disability believes that accessibility, diversity and inclusion are
integral to the priorities and values of our community. These principles must be applied to
affordable housing options. We believe that basic architectural access features in new
homes is a civil and human right that improves livability for everyone.
More specifically, the Commission on Disability asks the Ad Hoc Special Permit
Residential Zoning Committee to consider the following when drafting bylaw amendments
for affordable housing:
• To aspire to exceed basic access and aim for the inclusive principles of universal
design: We want to support the Select Board's aspiration to exceed regulatory
access as described in the ADA and look to a more inclusive perspective, often
described as universal design. This perspective supports design considerations in the
built environment that allow for access by the greatest number of people possible
without having to integrate special access considerations. Universal design
emphasizes convenience, adaptability, simplicity and flexibility. It helps improve
safety and livability.
• To promote "visitability" standards: We encourage the development of visitability
standards in the design of new housing. Visitability standards reflect access
considerations in a home anticipating all visitors as well as changes in ability during
the course of a lifetime. Nearly 80% of older adults want to "age in place", which
depends on access to affordable housing that incorporates universal design
fundamentals. Examples of these access considerations include at least one flush
entry way into a home, 36" wide doorways, lever door and faucet handles, rocker
light switches, bathrooms designed with proper studs in the event safety rails are
needed, and designing a tub that can be easily converted to a roll-in shower. These
standards have been adopted in some communities around the country but if
adopted in Lexington, they would make a bold statement about our community's
interest in supporting residents in their homes across a lifetime.
Victoria Buckley
Chair, Commission on Disability
August 20, 2019