Criteria for Site Evaluation
The criteria used in the curb ramp site selection combines language form the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with goals stated in Portland's comprehensive plan and other local statements on accessibility. The criteria are as follows:
- Provide Access to State or Local Facilities or Offices
Conditions complying with ADA language carry the most weight in the evaluation process. The ADA requires that funding priority be given to "walkways serving local and state government offices and facilities". - Provide Access to Public Accommodations
Locations that provide access to "public, commercial, medical, professional, educational or recreational services" high priorities for curb ramps sites. - Provide Access to Public Transit
A gal of the curb ramp program is to improve access to bus stops and light rail stations. - Transit Street Classification
The City of Portland has classified all streets in the city as a "regional/major city transit street," "minor transit street" or "local street." Highest priority is given to locations that provide accessible pathways on major city transit streets. - Enhance Safety at Crossings
High priority is given to ramps that will allow for safe crossings at controlled or marked intersections. - Create Connected Systems of Accessible Pathways
City staff and the Advisory Committee look for opportunities to complete a partially accessible intersection or pathway and to expand an existing pathway system.