1. What is the system/structure that you plan on reviewing?
The structure I will be reviewing is the Sunchase Apartments here in
Farmville. Sunchase Apartments consists of six different buildings, a leasing
office, gym, and a pool. I will be looking at the buildings where people live and
the parking lots near them.
2. Do an audit of that area/system. What are the significant issues that
would pose a problem for individuals with a disability (of all types)? You
should come up with at least 5 areas that need changing.
Out of all six buildings, there are few handicap parking spaces. The only
places that there are curb ramps are by handicap parking spaces. The only
area that there is a ramp is at the leasing center, it is also very long and steep.
Navigation signs, such as where which buildings are, are very small. The signs
on buildings have no braille on them either. At each building there are only
stairs and no way for anyone with a handicap to go up or down them.
3. What would you propose as an alternative to the current
system/structure? What would it take to implement this change? How
much would it cost?
As an alternative to the current structure, I would suggest more
handicap parking spots at all the buildings, more curb ramps, braille
on signs on the buildings, bigger signs, easier access to lower-level
apartments, and a more accessible ramp at the leasing office. In
order to have this done, residents would need to speak up to the
owner of the complex. This would be approximately up to $19,000.
4. How does each alternative incorporate the different principles of
Universal Design as it relates to your area? For each of the five changes
you must incorporate 3 of the principles of UD. You must use each
principle at least once.
By changing the amount of handicap parking spaces, this would
create low physical effort, simple and intuitive use, and tolerance for
error. Creating more curb ramps would create low physical effort,
flexibility in use, and equitable use. Bigger signs would create
appropriate size and space for approach and use, simple and
intuitive use, and tolerance for error. Braille on the building signs
would create equitable use, perceptible information, and tolerance in
error. A more accessible ramp would create appropriate size and
space for approach and use, tolerance for error, and flexibilty in use.