FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2010
CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org
IDC-OREGON ASKS IF OREGON FACILITIES ARE UP TO ADA REGULATIONS
President Obama signs Executive Order increasing federal employment of individuals with disabilities. Check out the full story here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/27/celebrating-with-substance
In a 2004 public case report, The Department of Civil Justice, Project Civic Access, stepped in to remedy common problems found in new construction and alternations of The City of Bend Oregon federal buildings. As quoted from the Project Civic Access Cities and Counties: First Steps Toward Solving Common ADA Problems brochure: "It is very common for architects and contractors to follow only their local building codes, which may not provide the same degree of accessibility to persons with disabilities. Compliance with local building codes does not ensure compliance with the ADA."
The City of Bend Project Civil Access is one of 4 known civic cases in Oregon where The Department of Justice has cited non-compliance with the American with Disabilities Act requirements in new and altered federal buildings and adjoining public spaces. Other Department of Justice civil action cases are noted in Desuchtes County [2004], City of Ashland [2001], and Tillamook County [2003].
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon is concerned that Oregon’s buildings may not be adequately designed for an aging work force. With this additional increase of employment for individuals with disabilities at the federal level, IDC-Oregon asks if local facilities are meeting the physical and psychological needs of the general population.
A qualified interior designer is uniquely educated, trained, and practiced in solving design challenges for all people - including those who require extra design to meet their capabilities or needs.As ADA coordinators, facility designers, and construction documentation specialists, these skills are an asset to help the public voice their needs and to assist with Oregon Federal Building upgrades. It is imperative we maintain healthy and safe places to work through exceeding local and federal regulated codes and ADA practices so that all citizens can equally participate in Oregon's economic future.
We join the President in celebration of the continued great work being done by his administration to ensure the equal human rights of Americans. Happy 20th Anniversary ADA!
Join IDC-Oregon on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your thoughts on how the two new rule amendments will have a positive impact on your clients and the future of your interior design practice.
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