Sidewalk Width
The minimum clear width for an ADA-compliant sidewalk without obstruction is five feet to provide adequate space for navigating and passing.
Detectable Warning Surface (DWS)
A detectable warning surface is a standard feature built into the sidewalk or ramp that alerts visually impaired individuals to the presence of a hazard in the line of travel, such as before an approaching street crossing.
Slope
Steep slopes encountered at curb ramps or cross slopes of intersecting driveways can be difficult and unsafe to navigate, especially for those using wheelchairs. ADA-compliant design, which can be a challenge for designers when working in confined areas, reduces steep slopes and provides level landing areas.
Ramp Orientation
When possible, to assist pedestrians who are blind or have low vision, ramps at intersections are angled perpendicular to the roadway to provide a straight line crossing to the ramp on the opposite side of the street.
Accessible Pedestrian System (APS)
An accessible pedestrian system uses pedestrian push buttons with audible features to provide information about the WALK and DON’T WALK intervals at signalized intersections in non-visual formats, helping to guide blind or low vision pedestrians crossing the street.
