Despite the progress of the past several decades, there still exist many barriers for people with disablities, from the hard-to-open door, to home constraints, to unequal policies and practices. In response to the problem, Dukes County Commissioners created the position of Associate Commissioner for Affairs Concerning Handicapped Persons.
This Associate Commissioner assists persons with disabilities, their family members and caregivers, commercial enterprises. and the general public to find solutions to accessibility issues.
The Associate Commissioner welcomes the opportunity to review any planned residential or commercial renovation or construction project for compliance with existing ADA regulations. The goal is to develop the most accessible, functional, and barrier-free environment possible.
Individuals who need a voice of support to resolve a disability issue will find a strong advocate in the Associate Commissioner.
All questions, concerns and other issues will be handled promptly.
Priorities:
- The elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.
- The goal of barrier free environment.
- The guarantee of accessible housing, transportation, and equal job opportunities in the public and private sector.
- The promotion of awareness pertaining to the needs of people with disabilities.
Additional Information Sources:
Mass. Architectural Access Board
One Ashburton Place, Room 1310
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-727-0660
Fax: 617-727-0665
Architectural review and building code issues.
Massachusetts Office of Disability
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305
Boston, MA 02108
Voice & TTY: 617-727-7440
Voice & TTY: 800-322-2020
Fax: 617-727-0965
ADA compliance and civil rights issues.
What is "accessibility"?
Accessibility means much more than ramps for wheelchair access. People with all types of disabilities must be ensured equal access to facilities, services and programs. People with disabilities must not be discriminated against through structural barriers, unequal policies and practices, or inaccessible means of communication and dissemination of information.
Physical and other barriers prevent people from participating fully in society. People with disabilities cannot assume they can use common places, such as stores, banks, offices, and restaurants, or participate in ordinary activities, such as working, getting an education, visiting friends, and attending community events. Most non-disabled people take these freedoms for granted.
Existing Laws for Disabled
The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board regulations are designed to provide full and free use of buildings and facilities so that persons with disabilities may have equal education, employment, living and recreational opportunities.
Construction or renovation of public buildings must comply with ADA regulations. If the work done in a 24-month period is more than 30% of the fair market value of the building, the entire building must come into compliance. New construction must fully comply.
Universal Access concepts recognize that the ADA only specifies minimum requirements. Going beyond the minimums and implementing thoughtful designs, at minimal additional costs, are at the heart of Universal Access design.
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