UB Undergoing Survey to Assess ADA Compliance

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A survey is under way to determine the University at Buffalo's overall compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The survey is being conducted by the consulting firm Architectural Resources, along with Watts Engineers, at the behest of the State University Construction Fund, says Michael Wright, senior architect with Facilities Planning & Design. Wright points out that similar surveys are being conducted at other SUNY institutions.

The consultants are "visually surveying" all state-owned academic buildings and dormitories on the North and South campuses, as well as parking lots and accessible routes for all campus structures, Wright says. They will document -- providing photographic documentation as appropriate -- accessibility issues as they relate to, but are not limited to, handicap access, doorway, toilet facilities, areas of refuge and elevators, among other items, he says.

In addition to assessing UB's facilities for current ADA compliance, the survey will develop work items and other projects to address ADA compliance, prioritize the project lists and update the transition plan in conjunction with the needs of the university's five-year capital plan, he notes.

Wright asks that members of the university community make a reasonable effort to permit access to their work areas. Employees of the consultants will carry identification, he adds.

The survey is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Wright at 645-3538 or mwright@facilities.buffalo.edu or Kevin Thompson, director of Facilities Planning & Design, at 645-3191 or kmt@buffalo.edu.