Accessible Cities Alliance - Promoting Disability compliance in the business community

July 22, 2007

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act became law 17 years ago, tremendous advancements have occurred in the way physically challenged people are perceived in society.

More businesses realize that wheelchair users have just as much right to accessibility as anyone else. To follow the ADA guidelines, companies and governmental bodies did face some initial costs, such as installation of wheelchair ramps and in some cases, the addition of elevators. Public transportation on trains, buses and minivans required lifts, but the benefits of properly serving the people far outweighed the initial costs.

Among the other notable improvements resulting from ADA were the creation of curb cuts to provide easier access across streets and onto sidewalks. More businesses allotted parking spaces for disabled people, and the state has instituted hefty fines for people who illegally use those spaces. Also, more signs in public buildings include Braille.

Another positive development coming from the ADA was a heightened public awareness that a person in a wheelchair is not impaired from succeeding in almost any task. Organizations, such as the Will-Grundy Center for Independent Living, are leading the way in offering people with disabilities the advocacy for equality and empowerment.

The local agency informs the disabled of their rights, provides support services and raises community awareness about disability issues.

Coinciding with the ADA anniversary, today marks the beginning of Accessibility Awareness Week. The Accessible Cities Alliance, which started exactly two years ago, is conducting a campaign to promote disability compliance in the business community.

The Will-Grundy Center for Independent Living, the Accessible Cities Alliance coordinating agency, will have a free disability law program focusing on the ADA from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the center's location at 2415-A W. Jefferson St. in Joliet.

With a message that "good access is good business," the Accessible Cities Alliance continues encouraging accessibility in all retail and commercial operations for consumers and disabled individuals who are seeking jobs.

Along with the local Center for Independent Living, the partnership includes the disabled, disability advocates, the city of Joliet, businesses, the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry, professional trade organizations and civic leaders.

Accessibility should no longer be an issue at businesses and public buildings. It is a right that the ADA established, and it needs to be followed.