Home Access Answer - Ramp “Hide and Seek”
By Hampton, Jane; Access Press,Publication Date: February 10, 2006
Column discusses alternative locations for an entrance ramp that do not “advertise” the mobility disability of the home’s occupant, thus increasing the safety of the home dwellers. If a garage is attached, it is a recommended site for a ramp, as it offers protection from rain, snow, and ice in addition to keeping the ramp invisible from the road. A platform lift is suggested as an alternative if the ramp would take away too much parking space. The second suggested ramp building location is the back of the house with access through an existing patio or back door. A connecting sidewalk would be needed between the vehicle drop-off area and the ramp; connecting the ramp with the drop-off area could also be an opportunity to create an exterior wheelchair-accessible patio or deck. Additional advice includes placing the ramp away from water drainage from the home’s roof and adding motion-sensor lights to the sidewalk, ramp, and door landing area. If the ramp must be located at the front entrance, it is recommended that it be “disguised” by using architectural elements similar to those of the home as well as appropriate landscaping.
Published by: Access Press (Website:http://www.accesspress.org/)
Link to text: http://www.accesspress.org/2006/02/home-access-answer-ramp-%e2%80%9chide-and-seek%e2%80%9d/
