Central PA Business Spotlight

Starbucks - Simpson Ferry Rd. in Camp Hill

Why do I like all of the starred areas?

This new Starbucks by the AMC theater on Simpson Ferry Rd. in Camp Hill is Universal Design at it's best! This Starbucks has improved accessibility as compared to other Starbucks' that were built only a few years ago. Not shown in this picture was a table with a bench on one side with 3 open sides for potential wheelchair users. There were so many stars that I could have plastered all over this picture to indicate great Universal Design features. Let's discuss...

1. Automatic doors with an easy to push button along the wall

2. A temperature controlled entryway that eliminates the need for an enclosed vestibule and an additional doorway

3. A non-skid mat that is a contrasting color to the floor for those with visual impairements

4. A zero-threshold entryway

5. No obstructions or obstacles to maneuver around from the door to the counter

6. An entry way wider than the standard 36" to the bathroom

7. A levered door handle on the bathroom door, which is easier to operate than a knob

8. A gender and ability-neutral bathroom that demonstrates inclusivity

   
   

   WHAT DID I MISS???

   
   

   Keep your eyes peeled for public designs that are impressively inclusive for people with different abilities. This could be something as small as a bathroom or as large as a playground. I'd love to hear about them!

   
   

   Especially use those detective eyes in restaurants, shopping areas, and concert venues. Think about how fun these activities are and how often you do them. After a few moments, think about if there is any way you could navigate that space using a walker or a wheelchair and still enjoy your experience. Please share your experiences with me!

   
   

   HISTORY LESSON

   
   

It was only 35 years ago that The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. Many people still experience public spaces that were built before 1990 that do not comply with standard ADA building codes. That is because public spaces built before 1990 were grandfathered in and were not mandated to make changes, unless they added new structures after 1990. The purpose of ADA was to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and public accommodations. Its goal is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities to access public spaces as everyone else. Unfortunately, there are still many environmental barriers that exist for people who are differently-abled.

How does ADA Affect Public Design Today?

1. **Universal Design Principles**: Public spaces are designed to accommodate people of all abilities, such as ramps, elevators, and wide doorways.

2. **Accessible Facilities**: Restrooms, parking spaces, and entrances must meet specific accessibility standards.

3. **Inclusive Technology**: Websites and digital platforms must comply with accessibility guidelines, such as screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation.

4. **Public Transportation**: Buses, trains, and stations are required to provide features like lifts, ramps, and audio announcements.

5. **Community Spaces**: Parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas are designed with features like sensory-friendly equipment and wheelchair-accessible paths.

HELP ME HIGHLIGHT ACCESSIBLE-FRIENDLY SPACES!!!