Cookeville Looks to Address Potential ADA Issues

National planning firm Kimley-Horn is working with the City of Cookeville to address potential ADA issues across the city.

Project Manager Alisha Eley said the firm is contracted to evaluate everything from public spaces to policies and the city website.

“Essentially it’s all the city buildings, parks, sidewalks, and the public right-of-ways,” Eley said. “So if it’s a public street, and there’s sidewalks along it, we’re evaluating those.”

During a presentation Monday evening, Eley listed several potential barriers for those who have a physical disability.

The City of Cookeville is looking to improve areas in the city to become more ADA compliant (Photo: Logan Weaver)

Things such as telephone poles in walkways, raised manhole or utility covers, and businesses without ramps could be potential ADA violations.

“Ultimately we’ll have a list of barriers identified in that then we’ll produce a transition plan,” Eley said. “That will list all the barriers as well as how best to remove those barriers and how much it costs as well as how long it’s going to take.”

During the meeting, a man in a wheelchair noted the city has listened to complaints in the past, something Eley said is a good sign.

“They are aware that there are barriers out there,” Eley said. “When the gentleman had an issue, the next day, they (city officials) were addressing it. They care, they don’t want to have any barriers, and they are definitely making this a priority.”

Eley stated during the presentation the firm hopes to have the transition plan completed and presented to Cookeville City Council by March 2019.