Two trees are planted in the middle of a narrow ADA non-compliant section of sidewalk on the east side of Los Gatos Boulevard, directly in front of the Trader Joe's parking lot and near the entrance of
Several pedestrians walking northbound on this section of sidewalk complain the trees are a tripping hazard and become an obstacle for those in wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Los Gatos Patch reader Tim Boyd said the area between the former Lincoln Mercury dealership and all along the Los Gatos Villa Square shopping center needs to be addressed.
"Try walking with a stroller or a wheelchair here," Boyd said. "The property owners of both sites should be funding these improvements given all of the work being done to bring this location up to current ADA requirements."
LOCATION: Los Gatos Boulevard at Los Gatos Village Square
PROBLEM: ADA non-compliant sidewalk prevents those in mobility scooters, wheelchairs from safe passage. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, building on an earlier law requiring curb ramps in new, altered, and existing sidewalks, added impetus to improving conditions for sidewalk users. People with disabilities rely on the pedestrian and transit infrastructure, and the links between them, for access and mobility.
RESPONSIBLE AGENCY: Los Gatos Parks and Public Works Department, which is responsible for maintaining the town's public parks, facilities, and infrastructure.
CONTACT: Los Gatos Parks and Public Works Department, (408) 399-5770, or email department director Todd Capurso at tcapurso@losgatosca.gov.
DATE REPORTED: Dec. 13, 2011
DAYS ON WATCH: 1
