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Tasteful-yet-code appropriate handicapped parking signage?

B

Bunabayashi

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I'm doing a small commercial design for a bldg in McLean, which-- as the photo demonstrates-- is woefully bereft of even a minimum standard. I'd like to, among other tasks, remove the 8' handicapped parking sign and replace it with much less visually intrusive signage. Is the symbol on pavement sufficient, what do folks here recommend? Thanks for any feedback,

Dave

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Well as a planner, resident of McLean and someone who has to frequently use those handicapped parking spaces, signage is only part of your problem.

1) Talk to FFX County and see what the rules are on the HC parking space itself, if you are doing much structural you will probably have to bring the parking lot up to code.

2) Talk to FFx about signage they are going to require you to have the lovely blue international symbol of access. I am not up on my international building code but I think its in there.

3) Find out what dealings you may have with the McLean citizens association, do not discount this body they hold a lot of oomph when they are against a project.

Now personally as a user of those spaces exactly what do you find obtrusive? When someone is handicapped you become used to looking for that sign, its as the name states UNIVERSAL, not being able to find it because its less visibly obtrusive is going to be a problem. Your client wants business yes? In an area with a lot of handicapped persons it seems counter productive to make it harder for ones clients to access a site.

Oops just took the time to Google up the regs and this is it http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/DSB/handipark.htm#signs you do have to use the signage that is probably more obtrusive than you are wanting. Google is your friend as most jurisdictions in this area have everything you need right on the web.

For what its worth I do not work for FFX County and have no association with the McLean Citizens Association.
 
Thank you for your post, it was very helpful. What I find obtrusive is the way in which the sign interrupts the composition of the front facade, in much the same way as the FedEx box. Just looking for aesthetically pleasing alternatives which also meet code.
 
This is the ADA Code Section that you will need to comply with:

4.6.4* Signage. Accessible parking spaces shall be designated as reserved by a sign showing the symbol of accessibility (see 4.30.7). Spaces complying with 4.1.2(5)(b) shall have an additional sign "Van-Accessible" mounted below the symbol of accessibility. Such signs shall be located so they cannot be obscured by a vehicle parked in the space.

You can go to this website for more info:

http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/html/adaag.htm#4.6
 
I think I have seen it done with a tile set in the building face, but I can't remember where. And I try not to venture an opinion on validity of ADA stuff even for my day job :r:
 
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