11:05 a.m., March 5, 2008--The Institute for Public Administration at UD sponsored a forum, “Sidewalks and Shared-Use Paths: Improving Mobility and Designing Transit-Ready Commutes,” on Feb. 21 as a follow-up to its policy forum held last spring. The forums address challenges associated with designing, constructing and maintaining pedestrian facilities to comply with requirements set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The conference, which was held in Clayton Hall, considered the design and construction of ADA-compliant pedestrian facilities. The forum included various breakout sessions, with speakers discussing construction and design issues, maintenance and funding.

“One of the forum's objectives was to change the way transportation facilities are designed in relationship to different land users,” forum emcee Ed O'Donnell said. “In essence, to be more pedestrian friendly and to promote walk able and healthy communities for all residents.”

Sally Conway of the U.S. Department of Justice served as the keynote speaker and touched on the responsibilities of complying with ADA requirements. In addition, representatives from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) provided an update on Delaware's State Pedestrian Action Plan. The final portion of the forum involved a panel discussion with all of the highlighted speakers and opportunities for questions from the audience.

A complete summary report of the discussions, findings and potential solutions from the participants will be provided at [www.ipa.udel.edu/infrastructure/trails2/].

Photo by Kevin Quinlan