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Lake Oswego presents 2024 ADA annual report emphasizing accessibility and community engagement

March 04, 2023 | Lake Oswego City, Clackamas County, Oregon


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Lake Oswego presents 2024 ADA annual report emphasizing accessibility and community engagement
The City Council of Lake Oswego convened on March 4, 2023, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the annual update regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) presented by ADA Coordinator Kelly Byrd. The meeting highlighted the city’s ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Byrd opened her presentation by emphasizing the importance of March as Disability Awareness Month and the city’s progress in removing barriers to ensure equal opportunities for all residents. She expressed gratitude to city leadership and staff for their support of the ADA program and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the ADA technical team and community advocates.

The 2024 ADA annual report detailed the city’s achievements in implementing the ADA transition plan, which was adopted in December 2022. This plan focuses on reviewing city services for compliance, evaluating the accessibility of public spaces, and developing strategic tools for improvement. Byrd noted that her office responded to over 100 public inquiries related to accessibility and processed eight formal requests for reasonable accommodations in city programs.

Key highlights from the report included staff training on ADA regulations, community outreach initiatives, and significant projects undertaken by various city departments. The library, for instance, expanded its accessibility efforts by purchasing an ADA-compliant bookmobile and hosting numerous hybrid events to ensure inclusivity. The engineering department upgraded curb ramps and constructed ADA-compliant sidewalks, while the Parks and Recreation department enhanced accessibility at summer events and supported youth with disabilities through specialized programs.

Byrd also reported on the fire department's initiatives to improve ADA compliance at fire stations and the police department's enforcement of ADA parking regulations, which included issuing 1,153 parking citations, with 13 related to ADA violations.

Looking ahead to 2025, Byrd outlined priorities such as advancing the ADA transition plan, opening a new aquatic center with accessibility features, and constructing additional curb ramps to improve mobility in the community.

In conclusion, Byrd reaffirmed the city’s dedication to making Lake Oswego an inclusive environment for all residents. The council members expressed appreciation for her efforts and acknowledged the importance of continued funding to support these initiatives, with Byrd humorously noting the need for financial resources to fulfill the ambitious goals outlined in the transition plan. The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and accessible community for individuals with disabilities.

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