Americans with Disabilities Act
Effective March 15, 2011, the Elmhurst Park District, along with more than 86,000 units of state and local governments, and 7,000,000 businesses and nonprofits, is subject to the newest ADA regulations set forth by the Department of Justice under Titles II and III of the Americans With Disabilities Act and the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.
On October 24, 2011, the Board of Park Commissioners approved an updated ADA Audit and Transition Plan that was completed by Accessibility Consultation and Training Services, Inc. of Wheaton (ACT), in consultation with staff. The report describes the specific barriers at each of the District’s park sites and facilities, notes regulation or guideline citations for easy reference and describes the ways in which each specific barrier can be addressed, including the use of best practices. A photograph of each barrier is also provided to give staff an identifier to refer to during the modification process. ACT also reviewed the District’s Administrative Policy and Procedure Manual concerning ADA compliance, provided recommendations on how to inform the public of these policies, gave guidance on establishing "reasonable accommodation" policies and provided a sample public grievance procedure.
The audit and plan serves as a guide to ensure that the District continues to be in compliance with ADA regulations. Park District staff prioritized the findings, developed cost estimates for implementation and continues to incorporate the transition plan into the development of capital plans and individual staff work plans. The District’s renovations identified in the Transition Plan will take place over a period of years based on priority and available funding.
If you or a member of your family needs special assistance or accommodations to participate in any Park District program, please indicate that need on the Park District registration form. In addition, there are numerous recreational opportunities throughout Elmhurst and surrounding communities coordinated through the Gateway Special Recreation Association. To discuss any special accommodation requests or Gateway, please contact the Program Supervisor at (630) 993-8670.
Please contact the ADA Compliance Officer, Angela Ferrentino, with any questions, concerns, or input regarding access to programs, facilities, and services for Americans with Disabilities or the District’s ADA Audit and Transition Plan at (630) 993-8915 or 375 W. First St. Elmhurst, IL 60126. A copy of the Elmhurst Park District’s Americans with Disabilities Act policy (includes grievance procedure) and comment and complaint form can found at links below.