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Construction Will Bring Intersection Into Compliance With ADA Regulations
Construction Will Bring Intersection Into Compliance With ADA Regulations 3/11/13
Matt Rist
mrist@cbs7.com
March 11, 2013
ODESSA-It’s all taillights and brakes on JBS Parkway today, and many drivers are asking why.
It turns out this all boils down to this intersection not meeting ADA requirements.
And it's not the only one.
The intersection at JBS and University is one of an undisclosed number in Odessa not in compliance with ADA regulations.
"That's why we need to do this, to get in compliance with the ADA regulations," said Andrea Goodson, spokesperson for the City of Odessa.
And it won't come cheap--the total cost of the project, along with repavement, comes to $3.3 million.
“It may be out of compliance, but it’s not something the state is worried about because they know we’ll fix it," said Goodson.
In addition to adding wheelchair access ramps and crosswalks, the project also adds surface level drainage.
Dozens of pedestrians cross these busy streets each day both inside and outside crosswalks. The city hopes with expanded crosswalks and wheelchair ramps, more people will stay inside the lines.
The ABLE center works with people with disabilities--they say a lack of wheelchair ramps is a far-reaching problem in Odessa.
"We're going to need some more in other major shopping centers that people access,” said Executive Director of the ABLE Center Marilyn Hancock.
The city says drivers need to get used to the construction, because the project will take months.
"It’s just really important to use cautious driving skills in that area,” Goodson said. “If at all possible, avoid it all together."
The first phase of construction will end in May, when the resurfacing will begin, which will last until October.
When asked for a list of intersections that are not in compliance with regulations, the City of Odessa provided a copy of its 300-page comprehensive plan for the city last amended in 2004.