This week SDOT began preparations to install new curb ramps (also known as wheelchair ramps) on Northeast 70th Street in the View Ridge neighborhood and in other Seattle areas to create a barrier-free environment for everyone when crossing at intersections.

SDOT paving crews will install ramps at 13 intersections on Northeast 70th Street between 36th Avenue Northeast and 50thAvenue Northeast, working at one corner of an intersection at a time and at several intersections at a time. They expect to complete the work within four to eight weeks. The crews will restrict parking in the immediate area of construction, but do not plan to close travel lanes. New ramps on 70th will improve pedestrian access to Concordia Lutheran School, View Ridge Playfield and View Ridge Elementary School as well as to bus stops and other neighborhood destinations.

This year SDOT will also install ramps on Aurora Avenue North between North 85th Street and North 96th Street and at other locations throughout the city. A total of 265 new ramps are being constructed in 2010 with funds from the Bridging the Gap transportation initiative approved by Seattle voters, and additional curb ramps will be installed as part of other projects.

SDOT installs curb ramps following federal accessibility guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The curb ramps have a textured surface where the ramp meets the street that is distinguishable underfoot and by cane. The yellow color of the textured surface contrasts with the surrounding ramp to provide a visual cue for low-vision pedestrians.

For more information: Brian Dougherty, (206) 684-5124, brian.dougherty@seattle.gov

Media contact: Marybeth Turner, (206) 684-8548