ADA Story July 31: Glenda L
My ADA Story: Hilly Handicapped Parking Spaces
By Glenda L
Several years ago, I tried a new (to me) grocery store in Rutherfordton. Having limited mobility from a spinal condition, I chose an accessible handicapped space nearest the front door. There were two areas of parking for the disabled. Only one had a space. The slope it was on was so slight I barely noticed it.
This grocer, a new BI-LO store was a little smaller than most, thus, more to my liking. It was easier to go through. Also, the store manager and checkers were helpful and outgoing. Over time, this became my "always" grocery shopping store.
However, there was one little hitch. My fave and most convenient handicapped parking spot was on a little hill. Strange. I wondered why it was put there because the next line over was on the level.
It is amazing how aggravating a little hill can be. Though having a spinal condition that makes me walk slowly and often with a cane, I prefer, when able (good days/bad days), to do things myself. I could manage pushing a loaded basket up the little hill but once at the car, with basket in hand, it was tricky letting go with one hand to fish keys from my purse, unlock the car door and place items inside, without struggling to keep the cart from either rolling away or bumping my car.
Yes, I could choose a level spot, but the level handicapped sites were usually taken, and the others too far from the store. As my condition worsened, I would choose to ride an electric cart to shop and/or have a helper accompany me and cart to the car. The car on the hill, that is. Of course, the cart barely made it up the hill, chugging along behind the helper.
I studied the situation and wondered why oh why had they chosen to place handicapped parking spaces on a hill when most of the lot was level? I determined it must have something to do with the code or specs for distance between accessible parking areas.
Whatever, I wished the issue could be rectified. Not only for me but for others. Folks worse off than me. I wondered what happens if a shopper has their own electric riding cart and it won't go up a hill?
Hopefully, this modest dissertation will attract attention for improving whatever needs to be improved to avoid hilly parking spaces for people with disabilities.
Quote from Glenda L.
"Through the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, aka. ADA, those of us with impaired abilities can continue to live fulfilling lives through the protection of the laws. These assure various physical enhancements for us, like a ramp instead of stairs; electric access doors on public buildings, special parking spaces, assistive listening devices in public areas, and other assistance for whatever one may need to hear, see, and move comfortably in a busy world. Thank you, ADA, for improving my independence."
NCCDD’s Note: This article includes unedited language used by the author to tell her story.
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