July 26, 2022, marks the 32nd anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA makes it illegal to discriminate against people because of their disabilities, and applies to employment, housing, public accommodations, education, transportation, and access to public services, among other areas.
In the past five years, the Department of Administrative Services’ 309 Task Force for Building Renewal division has managed 23 ADA compliance renovations with total allocations exceeding $6.4 million.
During the past fiscal year, the 309 Task Force has opened four projects classified as ADA upgrades, with an allocation of roughly $510,000.
These projects include upgrading restrooms with handicap stalls, renovating parking lots to include disabled parking, and installing ramps at state parks and historic sites. The 309 Task Force also provides ADA training opportunities to state building officials across Nebraska.
“In Nebraska state government, we are constantly working to provide high-level customer service to the people of Nebraska,” said DAS Director Jackson. “Making state government accessible for all of our customers, including our teammates, is a critically important component of that overall goal.”
Projects included building ramps at Fort Robinson Lodge and the George Norris House to improve access. Other projects included upgrading parking at Cedar Point’s Goodall Lodge and improving access to the First Nebraska Administrative Building in Lincoln.
With the 32-year celebration of the passage of the ADA, Nebraska state government continues to emphasize the importance of accessibility for state teammates and communities across Nebraska.
Photograph, Nebraska’s Fort Robinson Lodge after the ADA ramp upgrade.