Module D - Slide 7
In new construction, the highest level of accessibility in required, meeting the technical specifications in the ADA guidelines. There are very few exceptions allowed when something is completely new. In the public right-of-way, very little of what you build is truly new construction. There are nearby buildings or other facilities that can affect the construction. In new construction, there are deviations from the new construction standards allowed only for structural impracticability, equivalent facilitation and construction tolerances.
Structural impracticability – in new construction, this is most likely to be related to slopes/terrain that cannot be mitigated.
“Equivalent facilitation” is allowed in application of the ADA standards. Basically, this allows the use of a different method of providing accessibility as long as what is done is equivalent to or better than what is required by the standards. The engineer or designer has to be prepared to back that up if challenged. The intent of this is to allow for developments in technology or knowledge of how to make facilities accessible. There is not, currently, any kind of certification related to the equivalent facilitation requirement. When using something different, the designer needs to be prepared with information to support that decision as providing equivalent accessibility.
And, typical construction tolerances are allowed.