According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are approximately 25.2 million visually impaired Americans, which is roughly half of the entire U.S. disabled population. This number is growing rapidly as the baby boomers age. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been in effect since 1990; however, compliance has been very limited when it comes to temporary pedestrian access routes. The Public Accommodations section of the Act, requires that pedestrian accessibility be maintained in work zones. Up until now, the emphasis on work zone safety has been directed toward vehicular traffic and workers. Actually, pedestrians make up a larger portion of the traveling public, and an increased effort is now being made to improve conditions, especially for those with disabilities, in temporary sidewalk and footpath work zones.
展开▼
