You may have heard that there are going to be some changes to the ADA, in regards to access for people with disabilities that go into effect on March 15, 2012. You may be wondering exactly what the changes are and how they will affect you. We at Ride-Away want to give you a quick overview of some of the big changes, so that you know what will be happening soon.
These changes affect a number of different establishments in various industries, including: shopping malls, hotels, recreational facilities, amusement parks, correctional institutions and judicial courts. Here is a summary of a few of the ADA changes at amusement parks, golf facilities and hotels:
(Note: If a property has complied with ADA rulings from 1991, they are exempt from the new rules unless they do any renovations. All renovated properties and new properties fall under the new regulations.)
Amusement parks – rides that are newly constructed or designed need to be accessible and must provide an accessible route. Rides for children or those controlled by the rider are exempt.
Golf Facilities – newly constructed or re-designed golf courses must have accessible routes for the golf course and at least one teeing ground must be accessible per hole. Carts also must be able to fit easily into emergency shelters and some of the practice areas must be accessible.
Hotels and Lodging – up to 10% of all guest rooms must provide communication devices and mobility accessibility. The rooms need to be the exact same types of rooms that the hotel provides to other guests. Reservations must be able to be made for accessible rooms in the same way that other reservations are made. Accessibility features must be identified by the owner of the lodging area or hotel so that guests can determine if the options meet their needs. Also, your reservation for an accessible room is guaranteed and not simply a request, which is a great new change to the guidelines!
There have been a number of changes to other facilities and establishments as well, so please take the time to read the new guidelines! To read in detail the ADA guideline changes that were made in 2010, but that go into effect on March 15, 2012, click here.
