Comment from Franz, Bill

Most T-street-intersections constructed or reconstructed since 1992 here in north Texas cities do not have a curb ramp on the flat side of the "T". The two lower corners of the "T" have curb ramps - mostly diagonal - but sometimes in line with each other. But no curb ramp on the far flat side of the "T". But there is no way for a wheelchair nor a bicycle to cross from any corner to the flat side of the "T". The able bodied cross easily over the grass strip and curb. The disabled are barred from crossing because of lack of curb ramp at the top of the "T". Some local city engineers and lawyers are arguing that if there is a grass strip between the curb at the top of the "T" and the sidewalk that this is a barrier for all pedestrians and there is no requirement for a curb ramp. A grass strip is a detectable element but is not a barrier. The able bodied easily cross it. The able bodied easily cross T-street-intersections. But those with disabilities are barred because of lack of curb ramps on the flat side of T-street-intersections. I am arguing that this is an intersection with a crosswalk that extends from the sidewalk parallel to the base of the "T". This crosswalk extends to the top of the "T". This crosswalk requires a curb ramp on the far flat side of the "T" to get to the far sidewalk. The flat side of T-street-intersection should have at least one curb ramp to cross the street to the flat side of the T-street-intersection. Specifics and drawings of curb ramp requirements at T-street-intersections should be included in the final draft. Bill Franz