I haven’t but it’s intriguing to think what a popular Governor might accomplish with an executive order or just a sit down with mayors/city managers. 

The only thing that made this happen in OKC was a large municipal opportunity that essentially redesigned traffic flow in downtown OKC. Our Mayor’s Committee on Disability Concerns (not affiliated with the Council) reminded the then-mayor of the ADA requirements for when streets were modified and we now have a pretty accessible downtown. It was the old “capitalize on unexpected events” piece of systems change.

I realize that smaller cities and towns are tougher, but maybe this is an example that could be copied – this same mayor was big on health and got national attention for an event he called “This city is going on a diet!” (obviously it was the name that got the attention) But what that DID do was start a conversation about the “walkability” of OKC – and sidewalks are obviously integral for that.  Maybe working on a health focus rather than disability focus would spur some results??

Good luck!

Ann

From: xxxxxx@nacdd.simplelists.com [mailto:xxxxxx@nacdd.simplelists.com] On Behalf Of McCoy, AliceLiu, DDPC
Sent: Thursday, January 02, 2020 4:33 PM
To: 'xxxxxx@nacdd.simplelists.com'
Subject: [Marketing Mail] [External] DD Councils Inaccessible Sidewalks & State Action

Esteemed directors:

Does anyone have information about what, if anything, can be done at the state level either legislatively or through the executive to force cities and municipalities to make their sidewalks accessible?  We know the DOJ is supposed to enforce ADA requirements and plaintiffs can file ADA lawsuits, but does anyone know of any actions that can be taken at the state level? 

Thank you for your time and expertise.  I sincerely hope you enjoyed your holidays immensely!

Alice

Alice Liu McCoy

Executive Director

625 Silver Ave SW, Ste 100

Albuqerque, NM 87102

(505) 841-4575