City of Bellevue
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Sidewalk & Curb Ramp Inventory
WSDOT Presentation 7/31/2008
Project Partners
Starodub, Inc.
Presentation Outline
Key ADA Requirements
Bellevue ADA Transition Plan
Curb Ramp Inventory
Sidewalk Inventory
Field Validation
Database Analysis
Project Prioritization
ADAAG Compliance Definition Issues
Summary Comments
Key ADA Requirements
Title II – Government Services: Must ensure that individuals with disabilities are not excluded from programs, services, and activities (pedestrian facilities are an example of a program).
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)(Federal Civil Rights Law-July 26, 1990)
Title II Elements
Self Evaluation – 28 CFR 35.105
Public entities shall examine accessibility of its current programs, services, and activities and maintain records of self-evaluation activities for three years.
Transition Plan – 28 CFR § 35.150(d)(3)
Identify existing facilities that limit access for persons with disabilities.Describe methods to make facilities accessible.Specify schedule for improving facilities by prioritizing needs of persons with disabilities in existing facilities.
Heaving
Sidewalk & Ramp Survey OverviewMoveable Obstruction
Ramp cross slope
Absence of level landing
Fixed Obstruction
No Ramp Ramp TransitionBottom Landing
Tactile WarningTop Landing
Bellevue ADA Transition Plan
Guidance for Conducting an ADA Inventory
Numerous MethodologiesU.S. Dept of Justice
Florida DOT
Texas DOT Maryland State Highway
City of Sacramento
National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), Asset Management Approaches to ADA Compliance, NCHRP 20-07 Task 249.
“Existing laws and regulations provide considerable flexibility regarding the identification of physical obstacles that limit accessibility to individuals with disabilities. In other words, the standard for what constitutes acceptable practice (and, by extension, what could become a best practice) regarding data collection, condition assessment, and programming of needed improvements varies considerably and is subject to interpretation.”
Methodology Assessment
Summer 2006. Conducted 2 week assessment with professional staff using equipment for land surveys. Estimated cost in excess of $1M.
Summer 2007. Research partnership agreement with FHWA led to 2 month assessment with student interns using a modified ultra-light, slow-speed inertial profiler (ULIP) mounted on a Segway HT.
ADA Transition Plan Process
Data Collection1
Database Analysis2
ADA Transition Plan3
Disability Community Participation
• Prioritized list of physical barriers
• Cost estimation
• Funding strategy
• Implementation schedule
• Performance monitoring
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ObstructionsWD Driveway
n Movable
nm Vegetation
Running Slope
Cross Slopelow
Med
high
Curb Ramp Inventory
Curb Ramp Inventory Toolkit
Curb Ramp Features
33’’ MinMin
44’’ preferred
preferred
Crosswalk
Crosswalk
44’’ MinMin
Sloping Surface
Sloping Surface
Curb Ramp
WidthLandingLanding
Total Sidewalk Width
2% Max Slope any direction
8.3% Max 10% Max
Side
Flare
Field Documentation
Equipped with a digital camera, graphic interface, & data entry form.Positional accuracy of GPS receiver is 1-3 meters.Receiver can load and display ortho-photos enabling field staff to zoom in and create points on specific curb ramps. Spatial resolution of ortho-photos is 1 foot per pixel.
Topcon GMS-2 handheld GPS receiver:
GMS-2 Data Dictionary
Ramp type: Directional; Perpendicular; Diagonal; Construction; None (indicates no ramp where ramp is needed)
Gutter running slope: Compliant (<5%); Non- compliant (>5%)
Gutter cross-slope: Compliant (<5%); Non- compliant (>5%)
Transition: Free of heaves, gaps, and obstructions (yes/no)
Clear space at bottom: 4’ x 4’ of clear space at the bottom of a diagonal ramp, within marked crosswalk (yes/no)
Detectable warnings: 2’ x 4’ yellow panel of truncated domes adjacent to gutter transition (yes/no)
Marked crossings: Curb ramp wholly contained within crosswalk markings (yes/ no)
Landing slope: Landing slope does no exceed 2% in any direction (yes/no)
Landing panel: None (non-compliant); >= 48 in. (best practices); 36-47 in. (compliant); < 36 in. (non-compliant)
Ramp width: >= 48 in. (best practices); 36-47 in. (compliant); < 36 in. (non-compliant)
Ramp slope: <8.3% (compliant); 8.3% - 10% (non-compliant); >10% (non-compliant)
Ramp cross-slope: <2% (compliant); 2% - 4% (non-compliant); >4% (non-compliant)
Ramp flares: None; <=10% (compliant); 10.1% - 12% (non-compliant); >12% (non- compliant)
Returned curbs: None (if no ramp flares); Compliant (ramp is situated such that pedestrians will not walk across returned curbs); Non-Compliant (returned curbs may present tripping hazard)
Sidewalk Inventory
Inertial ProfilersInnovations in technology have caused the profiling industry to grow dramatically.
The ULIP measurements were more accurate than those made at the same site by two commercial light-weight profilers.
Starodub, Inc. Research and Development of Prototype ULIP funded by FHWA
ULIPs Technology
ULIPs (sidewalk) is a prototype modification of the ULIP system to:
estimate grade (running slope) and cross slope of sidewalksidentify sidewalk faults (heaving)time and travel distance synchronized to the data with GPS coordinatessynchronized with user input “events/features” notes
Sensor box includes a displacement laser (texture/profile/height), three accelerometers (inertial profiling), a gyroscope (pitch, roll, yaw), optical trigger (reference), GPS (general location), and a DMI (travel distance system).
A notebook computer and data acquisition card is used for data capture.
Basic ULIPs Tasks
• Data Acquisition• Data Processing• Data Acquisition/Data
Processing• DMI Calibration (Rider
Specific)• Data Processing (Subset
Analysis)• Zeroing the Gyroscope• Performing a “Radius
Adjust” in the “ULIPGEOM” Equation
DMI Calibration: Determines the wheel circumference for the given tire pressure and rider. This calibrated value is used in determining travel distance and is a key parameter in the “ULIPGEOM” Equation processing of grade (running slope).
Requires rider and tire pressure specific calibration.
ULIPs Relative to Surface
Running Slope (Grade) [ADAAG 4.3.7]
1:20 (5%) max, if greater, treat as ramp
Cross Slope [ADAAG 4.3.7]
1:50 (2%) max, if greater, treat as ramp
Changes in Level (Fault) [ADDAG 4.5.2]
1/4 inch max vertical bump1/4 to 1/2 inch beveled at 2:1If greater than 1/2 inch, then treat as ramp (12:1 bevel)
Protrusions/Obstructions [ADAAG 4.4.1]
Max 4” projection between 27” and 80” above surfaceObstacles limiting clearance width of the sidewalk
ADA Sidewalk Compliance Criteria
ADA Sidewalk Compliance Criteria
Grade (Running Slope)
Cross Slope
Faulting
Protrusions/Obstructions
Sidewalk Grade (Running Slope)
Running slope is the slope that is parallel to the direction of travel; and a ramp as outlined in ADAAG 4.8:
An accessible route with a running slope greater than 1:20 (5%) is a ramp and shall comply with ADAAG 4.8. (ADAAG 4.3.7)
Maximum slope 8.33%Maximum rise for any run shall be 30”Minimum clear width shall be 36”Level landings at bottom and top of each ramp
horizontal projection or run
30”m
ax. r
ise
surface of ramp
level landing
5’ level landing
ULIP & Smart Level Grade Validation
ULIP and Smart Level Grade Validation
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50 70 90 110 130 150 170 190
Distance (Feet)
Gra
de (%
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ULIP gradeSL Grade
Site was a sidewalk with two successive driveway crossings.
Path Repeatability for Grade
ULIP Grade (4 runs) vs Smart Level
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ADA Sidewalk Compliance Criteria
Grade (Running Slope)
Cross Slope
Faulting
Protrusions/Obstructions
Sidewalk Cross-Slope
2% Max. Cross2% Max. Cross--SlopeSlope
Nowhere shall the cross slope of an accessible route exceed 1:50 (2%). (ADAAG 4.3.7)
ULIPs Path Repeatability for Cross Slope
ULIP Cross Slope (4 Runs) vs Smart Level
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%
1024102610271028SL
Site was a sidewalk with two successive driveway crossings.
ADA Sidewalk Compliance Criteria
Grade (Running Slope)
Cross Slope
Faulting
Protrusions/Obstructions
Changes in Level
ADAAG 4.5.2 ULIPs Output Reports
Distance (feet)
Category (1: >=1/4” & <1/2”, 2:>=1/2”)
Bump Height
Time (seconds) Casename
7.05, 1.58, 1, 0.27, II37.15, 1.61, 1, 0.26, II37.23, 1.63, 1, 0.28, II37.32, 1.64, 1, 0.25, II3
11.75, 2.65, 2, 0.90, II312.57, 2.84, -1, -0.28, II313.17, 2.98, -1, -0.29, II3
ASCII text file for Inclusion in City’s GIS
Graph shows faults (bumps) along travel distance in field mode.
Changes in level up to 1/4 inch may remain vertical.
Changes in level between 1/4 inch and to 1/2 inch are permitted but must be beveled – bevel cannot be steeper than 1:2.
ULIPs Fault Measurement
Inertial Profiling
Apply filter to remove long wavelengthsApply filter to remove gaps (joints, grates, etc.)Apply filter to remove false bumps (leaves, grass, trash) Apply ADAAG for faulting
ADA Sidewalk Compliance Criteria
Grade (Running Slope)
Cross Slope
Faulting
Protrusions/Obstructions
Pedestrian ZoneThe minimum clear width of an accessible route shall be 36 in. (3ft). (ADAAG 4.3.3) [PROWAAC R301.3.1 requires a continuous and unobstructed clear width of 48 in (4ft).]
3 ft
In pedestrian circulation areas, maximum 4” projection for post or wall mounted objects between 27” and 80” above the surface.
Protected Zone
Cane Detectable Range
2727””
8080””
4” max. projections
Protrusions in the Pedestrian Zone
Obstacles in the pedestrian zone limit the clearance width of the sidewalk.
Obstructions in the Pedestrian Zone
Stationary
Signal Poles Fire HydrantsTreesUtility Poles
Moveable
PlantersStreet Signs TreesFurnitureMailboxes
Voice Defect LoggingFacilitate logging of sidewalk obstructions & protrusions, driveway locations, accessible pathway issues while operating ULIPs.
Video-logging supported by Sony HDR-SR1 30 GB hard disk drive (10 hours of SD video) linked to Red Hen Systems VMS 300 unit, a GPS encoder.
Red Hen Systems MediaMapper software organizes and links media to precise location within a map.
Mapping environment allows for:
Video camera controls including search-and-play, search-and-pause, and fast-forward-play Moving cursor during video playback indicates location and camera direction Ruler for measuring distance Zoom-in / zoom-out, pan, center, refresh
Movable Obstructions/Driveways/Protrusions
Key-press Events: Time/distance coding of user defined features along path.
Tree blocking sidewalk at SE 20th St & 140th Ave SE
Parked car blocking sidewalk on 136th Place SE
Database Analysis
Data Processing
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This map is a graphic representation derived from the City ofBellevue Geographic Information System. It was designed andintended for City of Bellevue staff use only; it is not guaranteedto survey accuracy. This map is based on the best informationavailable on the date shown on this map. Any reproduction or saleof this map, or portions thereof, is prohibited without expresswritten authorization by the City of Bellevue. NOTE: If you have specific questions concerning information contained on this map, please contact the sponsoring department asshown on this map.
This material is owned and copyrighted by the City of Bellevue.
City of BellevueADA Digitization Process
HillsidePlot Date: 3/9/2007
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1 inch equals 100 feet=
N
Map Location
IT DepartmentGIS Services
ObsructionsDriveway
Movable
Vegetation
# Heaving
Cross Slope
Running Slope
Digitized Sidewalk
Data ProcessingBatch Processing Of ULIP RAW Data
The Equation Shell software provides an interactive graphical environment with real-time display of data collection.
GIS Database Analysis
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GPS Line
GPS not reliable -- urban canyons, reflected signals, foliage.
159T
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3D Path
GPS Line
ArcPad interface to enter coordinates. 3D Path uses grade, gyroscope heading, & distance.
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3D Path
Digitized Sidewalk
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ObstructionsWD Driveway
n Movable
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Running Slope
Cross Slopelow
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high
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ObstructionsDriveway
Movable
Vegetation
Running Slope
Cross Slopelow
Med
high
Driveway Standards
Certain grades and slopes must be maintained.2% cross-slope, 8.33% max ramp slopes if used.
Slope down at 1:12
2% cross-slope
Apron, may be any acceptable grade
Slope up at 1:12
(8.3%)
(8.3%)
Absence of level landing can force wheelchair user over sidewalk flare and into street
Bellevue Driveway Standards
DEV-7A: Residential Driveway or Private Road Approach with Sidewalk
Note 8% sloping ramp.
Bellevue Driveway Standards
DEV-7E: Driveway or Private Road Approach ADA Option 2
DEV-7D: Driveway or Private Road Approach ADA Option 1
Project Prioritization
Provide opportunity to interested persons and groups to participate in self-evaluation leading to transition plan. 28 C.F.R. § 35.105(b).
Make self-evaluation and plan available for public inspection. Specific time frames and information required. 28 C.F.R. §35.105(c) .
Outreach Requirements:
Community Outreach
2000 Census: Bellevue residents with disabilities (15,500 persons) represent 15% of the population.
LAKE
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PUESTADEL SOL
BCCFACTORIACENTER
LAKEHEIGHTS
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EASTSIDECATHOLIC
NEWPORTHEIGHTS
Plot Date: 10/22/2007
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Legend
LAKE
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SE 40 ST
KEY
HURST
SKAGIT
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on
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PUESTADEL SOL
BCCFACTORIACENTER
LAKEHEIGHTS
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Scoring100
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SE 40 ST
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P-739
S-960
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S-954
S-966
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S-953
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S-803
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S-958
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S-953 S-967
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S-980
S-983
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S-987
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PUESTADEL SOL
BCCFACTORIACENTER
LAKEHEIGHTS
TYEE
SOMERSET
NEWPORT
EASTSIDECATHOLIC
NEWPORTHEIGHTS
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LegendScoring
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LAKE
KEY
CASCADE
SE 40 ST
KEY
HURST
SKAGIT
CRESCENT
on
S-987
S-885
S-984
S-962
S-890
S-986
S-988
S-897
S-985
S-984
S-956
S-809
S-959
P-739
S-960
S-956
S-985
S-963
S-993
S-948
S-955
S-948
S-989
S-961
S-954
S-966
S-948
S-948
S-810
S-957
S-803
S-953
S-803
S-889.2
S-803
S-961
S-958
S-80
S-953 S-967
6
S-980
S-983
S-885
S-987
90
405
PUESTADEL SOL
BCCFACTORIACENTER
LAKEHEIGHTS
TYEE
SOMERSET
NEWPORT
EASTSIDECATHOLIC
NEWPORTHEIGHTS
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Below PL (%)0 - 5
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No Data
Programming of Asset Improvements
Quickly and accurately identify high priority project locations based on spatial proximity to pedestrian attractors.
Field Validation
Field Validation
Cross Slope Running Slope Data Acquisition
Field technicians check the slope and grade of sidewalk segment with smart level for QAQC validation of ULIP data.
Validation Report: Smart Level/ULIP
Cross Slope Data Verification
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Smart Level ReadingULIP SurveyADAAG Compliance
Running Slope Data Verification
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Smart Level ReadingULIP SurveyADAAG Compliance
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ULIPs data consistently follows with the Smart Level’s peaks and troughs at test sites.
Rise versus Running Distance compared to ADAAG.
ADAAG Compliance Definition Issues
Raw Data Allows for Infinite Reanalysis Averaging Window SIze Effect on Grade (%)
-3
-2
-1
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1325 1330 1335 1340 1345 1350 1355 1360 1365 1370 1375
Distance (Feet)
Gra
de %
1 G2 G3 G4 G5 G10 G20 G30 G40 G50 G
Grade and Cross Slope Averaging Window Size: In the ULIP Geometry Equation, the user specifies the grade and cross slope window size in feet to be applied in a moving average computation. A value of 1 or 2 feet is appropriate for performing validations and for determining the Radius Adjustment parameter in the ULIPGEOM Equation. The graph illustrates the effect of moving average window size. The larger the value, the more dampened out the features.
Dimensional Tolerances
Nowhere shall the cross slope of an accessible route exceed 1:50 (2%). (ADAAG 4.3.7)
“Maximum extent feasible: the occasional case where the nature of an existing facility makes it virtually impossible to comply fully with applicable accessibility standards through a planned alteration. In these circumstances, the alteration shall provide the maximum physical accessibility feasible.” ~ DOJ implementing regulations
Although ADAAG states that all dimensions are subject to conventional industry standard tolerances, in many instances there are no standard tolerances for the various accessible elements mentioned in ADAAG.
Dimensional Tolerances
Guideline application over a given distance (data window) when reviewing grade and slope variations along travel path.
User Defined Cross Slope Exception Criteria Example
0123456789
1011
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Cross Slope (%)W
indo
w E
valu
atio
n Le
ngth
(ft)
Not Acceptable
Acceptable
Technical Infeasibility
SE 56th Street & 175th Place SE
New construction and altered facilities must be designed and constructed to be accessible to and usable by people with disabilities. (28 CFR 35.151)
Altered portions of facilities must meet new construction guidelines to maximum extent feasible
When one requirement is technically infeasible, other design specifications must still be met
Document, document, document when not able to meet specific design requirements
Path Variability (Smart Level Readings)
Smart Level Grade Path Variance
7.0
7.5
8.0
8.5
9.0
9.5
10.0
10.5
11.0
11.5
12.0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
Distance (Feet)
Gra
de (%
)
P1 gradeM12 gradeP2 gradeM23 gradeP3 grade
Smart Level Cross Slope Path Variance
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
Distance (Feet)
Gra
de (%
)
P1 csM12 csP2 csM23 csP3 cs
Standard deviation across five paths at 21 measurement points ranged from 0.13 to 1.41 with the average standard deviation being 0.37.
Standard deviation across five paths at 21 measurement points ranged from 0.08 to 0.97 with the average standard deviation being 0.46.
Readings taken along a sidewalk path by any measurement device are subject to variations in the sidewalk surface.
ULIPs Results
• Satisfactory Grade and Cross Slope Measurements.
• Rider specific calibration must be maintained.
• Constant tire pressure must be maintained.
• Data variance present due to path selection.
Questions?