Wednesday Workshop - Inspecting Perpendicular Curb Ramps

INSPECTING PERPENDICULAR CURB RAMPS

 45-minute webinar presented by

Ron W. Eck, P.E.

West Virginia LTAP

Session Description

Curb ramps are considered the basic element of accessibility.  Designing and constructing curb ramps that comply with the Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) can be challenging given the variety of constraints that exist along roads and streets.  Inspecting curb ramps is, also, a critical step in delivering compliant curb ramps.  However, certain common mistakes occur in curb ramp construction so it is important that inspectors know what to look for. 

This session focuses on inspection of perpendicular curb ramps and identifying unacceptable mistakes so that the constructed ramps will meet the needs of all users.  Key terms will be introduced and necessary measuring tools discussed.  Basic requirements for perpendicular ramps in terms of width, grade cross slopes, turning space, flares and how to measure each will be presented.  Requirements for detectable warning surfaces will also be described.  The session concludes with identification and discussion of “top ten” curb ramp mistakes.   

Session Agenda:

• Why is Inspection so Important?
• Terminology/Definitions
• Necessary Tools
• Basic Requirements for Perpendicular Curb Ramps
• Key Curb Ramp Issues (including detectable warning surfaces)
• “Top Ten” Curb Ramp Mistakes

Who Should Attend

The target audience for this session is state, municipal and private sector personnel with responsibility for inspecting curb ramps and related facilities in the public right-of-way.  These include engineers (state, municipal and consulting), technicians, inspectors, supervisors, foremen, concrete crew members and contractors.     

Instructor

The instructor for this webinar is Ronald W. Eck, P.E..  Ron received his B.S.C.E and Ph.D. degrees from Clemson University.  He is Professor Emeritus of Civil Engineering at West Virginia University and Director of  the West Virginia Local Technical Assistance Program (WV LTAP).  He has been involved in traffic engineering, including pedestrian transportation and accessibility, for over 45 years.  He teaches classes on accessibility and PROWAG requirements throughout the United States.