ADA Compliance Is a Major Aspect of Parking Lot Ownership in Mid-Missouri. Learn More About Accessibility With MoSEAL’s Knowledgeable Pavers
Every business owner has a set of responsibilities when it comes to their central Missouri property. One of the most important tasks is keeping up with ADA (or Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. This legislation ensures multiple areas of a commercial property are accessible and inclusive to people with disabilities, and the first step to creating a safer environment is optimizing your asphalt parking lot in mid-MO. If paving is at the top of your priority list, you cannot overlook the significance of ADA compliance. Get the official guide from our qualified experts at MoSEAL.
Why is ADA compliance important for businesses in central Missouri?
The Americans with Disabilities Act gives everybody the resources and pathways they need to park in your business parking lot, regardless of their ability. For example, certain parking spots should be close to a ramp leading to the entrance for wheelchair users. Accessibility isn’t optional for mid-Missouri businesses, meaning a failure to comply is a legal violation, so your property must meet the requirements. An ADA-compliant parking lot will not only help you avoid legal consequences but will also open your business to a more inclusive and equitable customer base. Now that you know the value of ADA compliance for central Missouri businesses, learn more about the different accessibility features your asphalt parking lot will need!
How to Ensure Your Asphalt Parking Lot Is ADA-Compliant in Mid-Missouri
Provide the right number of accessible parking spaces
Every business in mid-Missouri has a set number of parking spots on the property. Depending on the total amount, you will be required to offer a minimum of ADA-compliant parking spaces. At least one of the spaces will also need to be van-accessible, providing extra space for descending lifts. For smaller properties offering one to 25 spots, your asphalt parking lot will need at least one accessible parking space. An asphalt property with 26 to 50 spaces requires a minimum of two accessible spots. If you’re unsure, you can discover more about the legal number of accessible parking spaces for your mid-MO business through the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
The dimensions of all parking spots in mid-MO should follow ADA guidelines
In addition to having the proper number of accessible parking spaces, business owners must ensure these designated areas have enough space to accommodate people with disabilities. The average ADA-compliant handicap parking space in mid-Missouri is at least eight feet wide, and for van-accessible spots, the minimum is 11 feet wide. These parking spots also require an access aisle at least 5 feet wide on the same level, where people can safely exit their vehicles and unload their mobility devices.
Use ADA-compliant signage on your commercial asphalt in mid-Missouri
Another way to keep up with ADA compliance is to make sure your asphalt parking lot has the proper striping and signs that will direct drivers to your handicap accessible parking spaces. Every ADA-compliant spot should have a sign installed at least 60 inches above the ground labeled with the international symbol of accessibility. Similarly, access aisles should be marked with a striping pattern, and van-accessible parking spaces need to be distinguished for customers. This makes it easier for people to comfortably find their way around your mid-MO business while also staying compliant with the law, further benefiting your connection to the community.
Meet slope & curb ramp requirements when paving your central Missouri property
After a vehicle has parked in an accessible space, the people inside will need a smooth and stable path to enter the building with their wheelchair or mobile device. Parking lot slopes are expressed as a ratio, and an ADA-compliant space must not exceed 1:48, or else it may be difficult to navigate a scooter or wheelchair on uneven ground. For curb ramps, the slope should be no higher than 1:12, and it needs to be at least 36 inches wide. As you optimize your asphalt parking lot, you should always be considerate of accessible routes with a clear path.
MoSEAL Will Make Sure Your Asphalt Property Is ADA-Compliant in Mid-Missouri. Start With Our Paving Contractors!
With our diligent asphalt contractors, your business will be a safe, inclusive environment that is always up-to-date on ADA compliance. From commercial asphalt repair to full paving replacements, MoSEAL has handled it all in central Missouri. Contact us and learn more today!
