This week in our code update series we are discussing changes to parallel curb ramps. There are two sections that have changes impacting parallel curb ramps.
The first is 11B-406.3 Parallel curb ramps shall comply with Sections 11B-406.3 and 11B-406.5. A parallel curb ramp may be provided with one sloping segment or two opposing sloping segments.
In addition, changes to detectable warning requirements impact parallel curb ramps in multiple ways.
The following code sections have been updated regarding detectable warning at parallel curb ramps: 11B-705.1.2.2.2, 11B-705.1.2.2.2.1, and 11B-705.1.2.2.2.2.
11B-705.1.2.2.2 Parallel curb ramps. Detectable warnings at parallel curb ramps shall be located so the edge nearest the curb is 6 inches (152 mm) minimum and 8 inches (203 mm) maximum from the demarcation line at the face of the curb between the curb and the gutter, street or highway. Detectable warnings shall extend the full width of the turning space at the demarcation between the street and the sidewalk less 2 inches (51 mm) maximum on each side.
11B-705.1.2.2.2.1 One entrance/exit point. Where the turning space has one entrance/exit point other than the sloped ramp segments, detectable warnings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) deep, as measured perpendicular to the curb, and the turning space shall provide minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion without detectable warnings to allow pedestrian travel in the direction of the sidewalk without travelling over the detectable warnings.
Exceptions:
1. Where it is technically infeasible to provide a minimum 72 inches (1828 mm) wide
turning space, as measured perpendicular to the curb, the depth of detectable
warnings may be reduced to 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.
2. Existing parallel curb ramps with detectable warnings in compliance with the code
requirements in effect at the time of installation shall not be required to provide a
minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion of the turning space without detectable
warnings.
11B-705.1.2.2.2.2 Two entrance/exit points. Where the turning space has two entrance/exit points other than the sloped ramp segments, detectable warnings shall be 36 inches (914 mm) deep at both entrance/exit points, as measured perpendicular to the curb, and the turning space shall provide a minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion without detectable warnings to allow pedestrian travel in the direction of the sidewalk without travelling over the detectable warnings.
Exceptions:
1. Where it is technically infeasible to provide a minimum 108 inches (2743 mm) wide
turning space, as measured perpendicular to the curb, the depth of detectable
warnings may be reduced to 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.
2. Existing parallel curb ramps with detectable warnings in compliance with the code
requirements in effect at the time of installation shall not be required to provide a
minimum 36 inches (914 mm) wide portion of the turning space without detectable
warnings.
(Italicized text represents language that has been added.)
In summary, parallel curb ramps can have 1 entrance or 2. The code for parallel curb ramps now matches the code for perpendicular curb ramps and should be installed 6-8 inches from the face of curb. Finally, the turning space should have a detectable warning 36" deep with a 36" wide portion clear of detectable warning for pedestrian travel.
Next week, we will be talking about detectable warning and all the new places it shouldn't be installed! Whose excited?
As always, please contact our team at LRS...Architecture with any questions regarding parallel curb ramp changes, accessibility information, or how we can improve accessibility on your next project while making your job easier!
Erika@lrsarchitecture.com. 916-995-4798 www.cadisabilityaccess.com
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